A new study has revealed that having an extra Y chromosome significantly increases the risk of autism, offering fresh insights into why the condition is more prevalent in men. Researchers found that individuals with this chromosomal abnormality face double the risk of being diagnosed with autism compared to those with the typical XY chromosome configuration.

The study highlights the importance of examining the Y chromosome more closely to better understand autism risk factors, especially in males. Typically, men carry one X and one Y chromosome, while women have two X chromosomes. However, some men carry an extra Y chromosome, which has now been linked to a heightened likelihood of developing autism.

The findings open up potential new pathways for identifying risk factors and understanding the genetic components that contribute to autism spectrum disorder, paving the way for future research in this area.