COMORBIDITIES IN ADULTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: A SCOPING REVIEW PROTOCOL

Abstract

This article sought to describe a scoping review to map the extent, nature, and characteristics of scientific production on comorbidities associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adults. Comprehensive searches were conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO databases, including studies of any design that investigate adults with ASD and comorbidities. All steps will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, and articles will initially be selected by title and abstract by two independent reviewers. The data will be synthesized and presented in tables and graphs, focusing on types of comorbidities, prevalence, associated factors, impacts on quality of life, and gaps in the literature. The results of this review are expected to provide support for individualized clinical practices, guide future research, and contribute to public policies aimed at improving the health and well-being of adults with ASD.