Birth Defects Linked to Later Autism Risk Show Sex-Specific Patterns

A population-based study using Israel’s National Birth Registry found that congenital malformations were more common in children later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than in neurotypical peers, with circulatory and urogenital anomalies most prevalent. Sex-specific patterns emerged: genital malformations were more frequent in boys with ASD, while non-genitourinary (primarily circulatory) malformations were more common in girls with ASD; authors suggest prenatal androgens may influence development but acknowledge limitations like diagnostic changes and potential survival bias. Congenital malformations could serve as early markers for ASD risk.