Health- and oral health-related quality of life among preschool children with autism spectrum disorders

Purpose: To assess the health-related quality of life (HrQoL) and oral health-related quality of life (OHrQoL) of preschool children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and to determine the associated factors. Methods: A case–control study of preschool children with and without ASD was undertaken. H&OHrQoL were assessed employing Pediatric Quality-of-Life Inventory Version 4.0 (PedsQL™ 4.0) and Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). Differences in PedsQL and ECOHIS scores were determined between groups and correlation between PedsQL and ECOHIS was explored. Regression analyses were conducted to determine key factors associated with H&OHrQoL. Results: Parents of 510 children (253 cases and 257 controls) completed the H&OHrQoL questionnaire assessments. Significant difference in PedsQL (p < 0.001) and ECOHIS (p < 0.001) scores was apparent between children with and without ASD. There was a positive and weak correlation between PedsQL and ECOHIS scores (r = − 0.45, p < 0.01). In regression analyses, the presence of ASD was associated with an increased likelihood of having lower PedsQL (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.06–0.15, p < 0.001) and higher ECOHIS scores (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.60–3.42, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Differences in H&OHrQoL exist among preschool children with and without ASD. There was a significant but weak correlation between children’s H&OHrQoL. Both H&OHrQoL were associated with autism spectrum disorders.