A study conducted in England estimated the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in adults to be 9.8 per 1000, with no significant association with age. The prevalence was higher in men, those without educational qualifications, and those living in rented social housing. Adults with ASD were socially disadvantaged and often unrecognized. The study used a stratified, multiphase random sample and validated diagnostic assessments. The results showed no increased use of mental health services among adults with ASD. The study found that the prevalence of ASD in adults is similar to that in children, suggesting no increase in prevalence over time. The study highlights the need for improved screening methods and further research on the epidemiology and care of adults with ASD. Adults with ASD are at higher risk of social disadvantage and may not receive adequate support. The study also notes that ASD is not significantly associated with age, indicating that the causes of autism are temporally constant. The findings suggest that the prevalence of ASD is not rising or falling significantly, and that recent increases in diagnosis may reflect better case finding rather than new environmental factors. The study emphasizes the importance of systematic case finding for public health information and the need for further research on the care of adults with ASD.A study conducted in England estimated the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in adults to be 9.8 per 1000, with no significant association with age. The prevalence was higher in men, those without educational qualifications, and those living in rented social housing. Adults with ASD were socially disadvantaged and often unrecognized. The study used a stratified, multiphase random sample and validated diagnostic assessments. The results showed no increased use of mental health services among adults with ASD. The study found that the prevalence of ASD in adults is similar to that in children, suggesting no increase in prevalence over time. The study highlights the need for improved screening methods and further research on the epidemiology and care of adults with ASD. Adults with ASD are at higher risk of social disadvantage and may not receive adequate support. The study also notes that ASD is not significantly associated with age, indicating that the causes of autism are temporally constant. The findings suggest that the prevalence of ASD is not rising or falling significantly, and that recent increases in diagnosis may reflect better case finding rather than new environmental factors. The study emphasizes the importance of systematic case finding for public health information and the need for further research on the care of adults with ASD.