Study Reveals Autism Affects Girls as Much as Boys, Diagnosis Delays Persist
A recent study has revealed that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects girls as much as boys, challenging the long-held belief that it is predominantly a male condition. The research, which analyzed medical records of over 2.7 million individuals in Sweden, found that while boys are diagnosed with autism at higher rates during childhood, the gender ratio equalizes by adulthood. This suggests that girls are often diagnosed later in life. The study highlights that the signs of autism may present differently in girls, potentially leading to underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. Researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, led by medical epidemiologist Caroline Fyfe, suggest that biases in expectations and diagnostic criteria may contribute to this disparity. The findings indicate a need for improved diagnostic practices to ensure timely identification and support for girls with autism. 
