Factors Affecting Family Compliance with Genetic Testing of Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

There is broad consensus about the importance of post-diagnostic genetic testing for children with ASD. However, the extent of compliance with these tests and the factors affecting compliance have rarely been examined. We surveyed a sample of 114 families with a child with ASD in Israel, where such genetic testing is funded by the government. We found that only one-third of these families completed post-diagnosis genetic testing for their child. The main factor influencing compliance was the doctor′s recommendation (OR 11.6; 95% CI 3.2–42.4; p < 0.001). Furthermore, > 50% of the non-compliant families reported that genetic testing was irrelevant to them. Our findings highlight the importance of providing clear recommendations and explanations regarding the benefits and relevance of post-diagnosis genetic testing for children with ASD.