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

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: 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. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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). CONCLUSION: 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.