Association between autistic traits and binge drinking: Findings from Japan.

This Japanese study looked at drinking habits in 1,452 adults with and without autistic traits. People with autistic traits were much more likely to binge drink (drinking 4-5+ drinks in 2 hours). About 43% of people with autistic traits had binged drinking in the past month, compared to 28% of people without autistic traits. This was especially true for women and certain age groups.

The researchers suggest that doctors should check for drinking problems more carefully in adults with autistic traits.

This cross-sectional study of 1,452 Japanese adults examined the relationship between autistic traits and binge drinking behaviors. Using the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-J-10), researchers found that individuals with autistic traits had significantly higher rates of past-month binge drinking (42.7% vs 27.6%) compared to those without autistic traits. After controlling for mental health factors and ADHD symptoms, individuals with autistic traits showed 54% higher odds of weekly binge drinking. The association was particularly strong among women (OR: 2.27) and specific age groups (18-34 years and 60+ years).

The study highlights the need for improved screening and intervention strategies for alcohol misuse in adults with autistic traits.

Findings suggest need for routine alcohol screening in adults with autistic traits, particularly women and specific age groups. Clinicians should be aware of elevated binge drinking risk and consider integrated approaches addressing both autism-related needs and substance misuse prevention in this population.

Single cross-sectional study from one country limits generalizability. Relies on self-reported data which may be subject to bias. Uses screening tool for autistic traits rather than clinical diagnosis. Cannot establish causality due to study design.

Substance misuse may be elevated in some individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As yet, however, little is known about the association between autistic traits (AT) and substance use/misuse in adults. This study examined the association between AT and binge drinking (BD) among individuals in Japan. Data were analyzed from 1452 individuals aged 18 and above collected during an online survey in February 2021.

Self-reported information was obtained on BD assessed as consuming 5 or more (males) or 4 or more (females) drinks containing any kind of alcohol within a 2-h period. AT were assessed with the Japanese version of the Autism Spectrum Quotient - the AQ-J-10. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine associations. The prevalence of past-month BD was significantly higher in individuals with AT compared to those without AT (42.7% > 27.6%).

In a fully adjusted analysis that controlled for mental health (anxiety, depression) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, individuals with AT had significantly higher odds for BD once a week or more often (OR: 1.54, 95%CI: 1.04-2.29). AT were also associated with significantly higher odds for BD among women (OR: 2.27, 95%CI: 1.08-4.76), and those aged 18-34 (OR: 2.37, 95%CI: 1.09-5.18) and aged 60 and above (OR: 2.15, 95%CI: 1.02-4.53). Individuals with AT have higher odds for BD. Increased efforts to detect alcohol use/misuse in adults with AT and AT in adults misusing alcohol may be efficacious in efforts to manage symptoms and eliminate harmful alcohol misuse.