Chronic pediatric medical conditions like autism can be hard for parents to manage, but being prepared for these issues can create a better, healthier environment for the family. When mothers and fathers know what to expect and how to care for their child, they can avoid frustration related to not knowing what to do – and the earlier they know, the better. 

Parents with autistic children should be aware that there is an increased chance that younger siblings will also experience the condition. Reuters Health recently reported on a study from Aarhus University in Denmark that looked into the likelihood of autism occurring among multiple siblings. Researchers discovered that younger siblings are seven times more likely to have an autistic disorder if their older siblings were diagnosed with one. This includes half-siblings, who are more likely to have an autism spectrum disorder if they share the same mother. Half-siblings with the same father were only 1.5 times more likely to share an ASD. 

While there may be a genetic predisposition to ASDs, Therese Gronborg​, who led the study, noted that there would be a greater recurrence rate if it were solely a hereditary, biological issue. Lifestyle, environment and upbringing were all noted as possible reasons for why children may have ASDs. Researchers suggested that the parents' ability to recognize autism's symptoms may also be why their kids are more likely to be diagnosed with the condition. 

However, Reuters highlighted the fact that past studies actually found a stronger link between autism and sibling relationships. The Aarhus University research still found a correlation between the two, but it is not as likely as once thought. While younger siblings to autistic children have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the condition, this still only amounts to a 7 percent chance – rather than the 18 percent chance similar projects have found. 

Helping raise an autistic child
For parents to maintain their children's health and wellness and their own, the Mayo Clinic provided a few suggestions. This included working with social workers, doctors and teachers to find the best way to raise and educate the child. Meeting with other families that have autistic children can also help. As always, knowledge is power, so the source recommended staying up to date about the disorder and the most recent technologies and therapies devoted to managing it.