Autistic Children Four Times more Likely to Deal with Digestive Issues

A recent study examines why autistic children are four times more likely to suffer from digestive troubles than their peers.

"We really searched high and low for good studies, and we only found 15 studies on this over 32 years," said study author William Sharp, a behavioral pediatric psychologist at the Emory University School of Medicine, in Atlanta, via Health Day.

The findings were based on a review of medical research that revealed how children with autism are more likely to deal with gastrointestinal troubles, including abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhea.

However, study authors stress that the link between the two health issues does not necessarily demonstrate a cause and effect relationship. In other words, the theory that the biology of autism is responsible for stomach issues has been discredited.  

"This is something that is a prominent concern for kids with autism, and that we should refocus our scientific endeavors to get an evidence-based approach for assessment and treatment of these kids," said Sharp, who specializes in feeding problems in children with autism, via the news organization.

However, many of the studies showed the same problems, including complaints relating to diarrhea and even constipation. From a group of 961 possible studies, only 15 had a control group. And even in those studies, according to Health Day, many used different definitions for frequent complaints regarding gastrointestinal issues. In fact, many relied on reports from parents to document a problem while others only asked for information that was noted in the child's medical chart.

After pressing out the differences, researchers still noted higher rates of GI issues among children with autism--particularly with diarrhea and constipation. They also noted that children with autism are twice as likely to experience abdominal pain.  However, they are still uncertain as to why those with autism are more prone to digestive issues. Many believe it may be a result of the behavioral aspects of the disorder.

"This is something that is a prominent concern for kids with autism, and that we should refocus our scientific endeavors to get an evidence-based approach for assessment and treatment of these kids," Sharp said, via WebMD, who specializes in feeding problems in children with autism.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal Pediatrics.