Osteoporosis prevention in adults with autism: is calcium and vitamin D intake adequate?

Abstract

The number of adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is rapidly increasing. This population is expected to continue to expand as 1 in 44 children in the US have an ASD diagnosis. Individuals with an ASD have significantly increased risk of comorbidities, especially osteoporosis-a disease in which bone density decreases, resulting in a higher risk of bone breakage. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake can decrease the risk of the development of osteoporosis or decrease the incidence of breaks in individuals with osteoporosis. The aims of this study are as follows: 1) to assess the the planned calcium and vitamin D intake of adults with autism in assisted living homes and compare with recommended daily intake values; and 2) to measure actual intake and educate as needed to meet nutritional demand.