Parental perceptions and concerns of weight status in children with autism spectrum disorders in Kuwait

•High level of obesity observed in children and young adults with ASD in Kuwait.•Reflective of guardian’s weight status and society at large.•Assessing the weight status of children attending Kuwait Center for Autism.•Identifying associations of overweight and obesity.•Dietary modification and nutritional status should be monitored in youth with ASD.

Autism spectrum disorders are developmental disabilities associated with deficits in communication skills. The distinct behavioral and physical characteristics of ASD can make these individuals more vulnerable to obesity. This study evaluated the prevalence of obesity in a group of ASD children and investigated their dietary habits, and mealtime behavior. Parental perception and awareness associated with overweight and obesity was evaluated. Data was collected from 65 student-respondent dyads in a cross-sectional survey of students enrolled at the Kuwait Center for Autism. Fifty-nine percent respondents reported regular measurement of their children’s height and weight. Both healthy (daily breakfast, daily milk intake, frequent consumption of fish and seafood, and consuming fruits and vegetables) and unhealthy (consuming fast foods) dietary habits were reported by majority of respondents. Most respondents (78%) felt that their children ate a varied diet. Mood swings and hyperactivity were commonly reported mealtime behaviors in students. The findings suggest that obesity is common in children and youth with ASD in Kuwait. Monitoring and modification of dietary habits and mealtime behavior should be implemented toward tackling the problem of overweight and obesity in this population.