Recurrence risk in Autism Spectrum Disorder: a study of parental knowledge.

AIM: To describe recurrence risk information currently being obtained by families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

METHODS

Structured telephone interview of parents of 21 children who received a diagnosis of ASD at Calvary Health Care Tasmania, Hobart, Australia between May 2005 and May 2006.

RESULTS

Only one of the 21 parents knew their true recurrence risk. Many overestimated their risk substantially, and in four cases this had led to a decision against increasing family size. Eleven parents said they had received no information about recurrence risk, and only one cited medical practitioners as a source of information about recurrence risk.

CONCLUSION

Current provision of information about recurrence risk to families affected by ASD is inadequate.