29 May 2025 • Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have over 4 times the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease (PD) compared to those without ASD (0.05% vs 0.02%; adjusted RR 4.43).

Depression and antidepressant use also doubled PD risk (RR 2.01). Antipsychotics slightly reduced—but did not eliminate—the ASD-PD link.

Findings suggest a shared neurobiological pathway and highlight the need for increased vigilance around long-term neurological outcomes in individuals with ASD.

Source: JAMA Network | Read Full Story