The NHS has published the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Study, which shows that the prevalence of autistic adults in the UK remains at around one in 100 people. Our charity’s response is included below.
Our comment:
Mel Merritt, Head of Policy and Campaigns at the National Autistic Society, said: “These figures show the prevalence of autistic adults in the UK remains at around one in 100 people. We hear increasingly loud, misleading and harmful narratives about autism, like false claims about ‘overdiagnosis’. But there is no evidence to suggest this is happening. Misinformation can be hugely damaging and lead to discrimination and autistic people being dismissed or denied the support they need.
“In fact, research shows significant underdiagnosis for women and older adults, with over 90% of autistic people aged 50 years or older being undiagnosed. The real issues are that autistic people face long delays and traumatic battles to get the most basic support across every aspect of their lives, from diagnosis to education, employment, health and social care, and mental health.
“The Government must deliver a new autism strategy in 2026, which is properly funded, with clear accountability and involves autistic people throughout. It’s time to take action to create a more inclusive society that works for autistic people and their families.”
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