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Obesity As a Modifiable Risk Factor in the Treatment of Feeding Problems in Children with ASD
Many risk factors for obesity in children with ASD are likely the same as for typically developing children, especially within the context of today’s obesogenic environment. However, by virtue of their distinct needs and challenges, children with ASD may be more susceptible to the risk factors experienced by the general population and may also be vulnerable to unique risk factors. For example, food selectivity, psychopharmacological treatment, disordered sleep, and challenges to engaging in adequate levels of physical activity may be associated with the development of obesity in this population. This talk summarizes the extant literature on the prevalence of obesity in children with ASD and the putative obesity risk factors that this population may experience.
Objectives:
To review the data on the prevalence of obesity in children with ASD and established and putative risk factors associated with obesity.
Methods:
Data presented will derive from large national datasets, convenience samples, and other studies that have provided objective data on weight status and potential risk factors for obesity in children with ASD.
Results:
Evidence from observational studies and nationally representative surveys suggest that children with ASD have a prevalence of obesity at least as high as that seen in typically developing (TD) children. Research has documented that atypical antipsychotic medication presents a clear risk for weight gain in this population. Although limited, evidence suggests that children with ASD are less active than typically developing children and encounter more barriers to participate in physical activity than TD children. Very limited data exist on the association between dietary patterns and weight status in children with ASD.
Conclusions:
Obesity and its associated sequelae pose significant threats to independent living, self-care, quality of life, and long-term health outcomes for individuals with ASD, and thus should be targets for intervention.