A new population-based study published May 6, 2026 in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology found children with epilepsy are 6 to 11 times more likely to have autism than children without epilepsy. The study tracked 30,490 children in Olmsted County, Minnesota, including 257 diagnosed with epilepsy before age 19.

Among children with epilepsy, 21.4% met broad autism criteria compared to 3.2% of children without epilepsy. Clinical autism diagnoses were also significantly higher: 7.9% versus 0.7%.

What the Numbers Show

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic applied three different diagnostic standards to measure autism prevalence. Under strict research criteria, 14.0% of children with epilepsy met the threshold versus 1.6% of children without epilepsy.

Children who had both conditions faced far higher rates of intellectual disability. In the epilepsy-plus-autism group, 56.5% had intellectual disability. In the epilepsy-only group, that figure dropped to 15.4%.

The study also found higher female representation among children with both conditions: 38.2% versus 25.8% in the epilepsy-only group.

Why Families Aren't Told to Screen

Most families managing epilepsy are never told to screen for autism. Most families managing autism aren't told to watch for epilepsy. The comorbidity isn't part of routine clinical screening despite the elevated risk.

Senior author Dr. Elaine C. Wirrell noted that although children with epilepsy face higher autism risk, "recognition can be delayed." The study authors emphasized that early screening supports earlier diagnosis and timely intervention, which are critical to improving long-term outcomes.

The Shared Biology

Epilepsy and autism share overlapping genetic and neurological pathways. Both involve disrupted brain connectivity and synaptic function. Some genetic mutations increase risk for both conditions simultaneously.

Seizure activity during critical developmental windows can also affect language, social development, and cognitive skills, all areas assessed in autism evaluations. Children with earlier seizure onset and more severe or frequent seizures show higher autism prevalence.

What This Means for Families

If your child has epilepsy and hasn't been screened for autism, the screening isn't automatic. You'll need to request it explicitly.

If your child has autism and develops seizures, ask for a comprehensive epilepsy evaluation. Don't assume the seizure activity is unrelated or secondary.

Children with both conditions face compounding challenges. Intellectual disability is more common. Developmental delays are often more pronounced. Early intervention that addresses both conditions together produces better outcomes than treating them in isolation.

What Families Can Do Now

• Ask your child's neurologist or developmental pediatrician for autism screening if your child has epilepsy. Use validated screening tools like the M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) or SCQ (Social Communication Questionnaire).
• Request an epilepsy evaluation if your child has autism and you notice staring spells, unusual movements, or behavioral changes that could signal seizure activity.
• Document any co-occurring symptoms: repetitive behaviors, communication delays, social difficulties, sleep disruptions, or attention issues. Bring the list to appointments.
• Ask whether genetic testing is appropriate. Some genetic conditions cause both epilepsy and autism, and identifying the underlying cause can guide treatment decisions.

Where to Find More Information

The full study is available at the journal's website. The Mayo Clinic press release provides additional context on the research methods and clinical implications.

Families managing epilepsy can find resources on seizure first aid, school action plans, and treatment options in our epilepsy section. For autism-specific guidance, see our coverage of sensory accommodations and wearable monitoring technology.