From the Research
The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in New Zealand is estimated to be approximately 1% of the population, based on the most recent and highest quality study available 1. This rate is consistent with global prevalence estimates, though some studies suggest the actual number may be higher.
- The study by 1 utilized linked health and non-health data to develop a method for identifying cases of ASD among children and young people in New Zealand.
- The method identified almost 10,000 children and young people with ASD in New Zealand, with co-occurring mental health or related problems found in over 68% of this group.
- The most frequently identified conditions were intellectual disability, disruptive behaviors, and emotional problems.
- While the method may underestimate the prevalence of ASD in New Zealand, it provides a significant step towards establishing a more comprehensive evidence base to inform ASD-related policy.
- The global prevalence of ASD is estimated to be around 0.6% (95% confidence interval: 0.4-1%) according to a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis 2.
- However, the study by 1 is the most relevant and recent study specifically focusing on New Zealand, and its findings should be prioritized when considering the prevalence of ASD in this context.
- Therefore, based on the strongest and most recent evidence, the prevalence of ASD in New Zealand is estimated to be around 1% of the population, which translates to roughly 50,000 individuals living with ASD 1.