The neurological condition formerly known as Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) does not directly cause an early death. However, individuals who fit the profile associated with AS experience a significant reduction in average longevity compared to the neurotypical population. This disparity is a consequence of co-occurring physical and mental health conditions and systemic barriers to care. Understanding the current diagnostic framework is the first step in addressing the factors that contribute to this shortened lifespan.
Diagnostic Context and Current Terminology
The diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome was officially retired with the publication of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in 2013. The symptoms previously described as AS were merged into the single category of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This change standardized diagnosis, as the clinical distinction between AS and other forms of autism was often unclear.
Individuals who would have previously received an Asperger’s diagnosis are now typically classified as having Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1. This level indicates that an individual requires support but generally does not have an accompanying intellectual disability or significant language delay. When examining longevity data today, studies most often refer to the ASD population, using data for those without intellectual disability as the most relevant proxy for former AS diagnoses.
Statistical Overview of Longevity
Research focusing on the life expectancy of individuals on the autism spectrum consistently shows that the average lifespan for autistic people is significantly lower than for the general population. For individuals with ASD who do not have a co-occurring intellectual disability—the group overlapping with former Asperger’s diagnoses—the reduction is notable.
Some research has estimated the average life expectancy for this group to be around 58 years, compared to the general population’s average of over 70 years. More recent data focusing specifically on individuals with Level 1 ASD suggests a less drastic reduction, with estimates ranging from 72 to 75 years for men and 70 to 77 years for women in some countries. Even these figures demonstrate a persistent gap in health outcomes, rooted in a combination of acute risks and chronic health issues common within the spectrum population.
Primary Drivers of Mortality Risk
The primary drivers of premature death in the ASD population are mental health crises and external risks. Individuals with Level 1 ASD often experience high rates of co-occurring anxiety disorders and major depressive disorder, contributing to an elevated risk of suicide. Suicide rates are disproportionately high in this population, particularly among those with average or above-average intelligence. The immense strain of consistently navigating a neurotypical world, often referred to as “masking,” contributes to severe mental health deterioration over time.
Accidental injury is another major cause of premature mortality. Autistic individuals are at a greater risk of dying from accidents compared to their peers, often linked to impaired judgment, executive dysfunction, or a tendency to wander. For example, accidental drowning is a significant cause of death, as nearly half of all children with autism have a tendency to elope from safe environments. These acute risks demand immediate and specialized intervention.
Addressing Co-occurring Physical Health Disparities
Chronic physical health conditions also reduce the lifespan of individuals with ASD. Cardiovascular disease and an increased prevalence of obesity are significant health disparities in the adult autistic population. Epilepsy and seizure disorders are common co-occurring conditions, and complications arising from seizures contribute to early mortality. Gastrointestinal issues are frequently reported and can lead to chronic pain and nutritional deficiencies.
Barriers within the healthcare system compound these physical health problems. These barriers hinder effective clinical care and often result in delayed diagnosis or inadequate treatment for serious physical illnesses:
- Communication challenges
- Sensory sensitivities
- Difficulties with abstract self-reporting
- Diagnostic overshadowing, where medical symptoms are incorrectly attributed to autism
Medication side effects, particularly from psychotropic medications used to manage co-occurring mental health conditions, also contribute to adverse health outcomes. Addressing these chronic conditions requires a healthcare model that is accommodating and knowledgeable about the specific needs of autistic patients.
Strategies for Promoting Health and Extending Lifespan
Efforts to improve the life expectancy for individuals with Level 1 ASD must focus on mitigating both acute and chronic risks. Implementing robust and accessible mental health support is a priority, including early screening for anxiety and depression and providing specialized psychotherapy adapted for autistic communication styles. Support systems should foster independence and build executive functioning skills, which can reduce the risk of accidental injury in adulthood.
Healthcare providers must be educated on autism-specific needs to improve the quality of preventative physical care. Creating sensory-friendly medical environments and using clear, direct communication during appointments helps reduce patient anxiety and improve the accuracy of symptom reporting. Promoting healthy lifestyle habits, such as tailored exercise routines and dietary guidance that respects sensory sensitivities, is important for managing conditions like cardiovascular disease and obesity. Extending the lifespan requires a societal commitment to reducing environmental and systemic stressors that contribute to poor health outcomes.