Are Autism and Adhd Linked?

Autism spectrum disorder and ADHD are related in several ways. ADHD is not on the autism spectrum, but they have some of the same symptoms. And having one of these conditions increases the chances of having the other.

Are autism and ADHD genetically linked?

Scientists have long suspected that autism and ADHD share genetic roots. Up to 80 percent of people with autism also meet the criteria for ADHD. Both conditions are highly heritable and often co-occur in families.

What is the relationship between autism and ADHD?

In a 2014 review of studies looking at the co-occurrence of ADHD and ASD, researchers found that between 30 to 50 percent of people with ASD also have symptoms of ADHD. Researchers don't fully understand the cause for either condition, or why they occur together so frequently. Both conditions may be linked to genetics.