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One in every 100 adults across England has autism, figures show today.
It is the first time researchers have counted the number of adults with the condition. Experts said the figures, which do not include people living in institutions, indicate that the MMR jab is not linked to autism because the rate is exactly the same in children.
The study, based on 7,500 adults and funded by the Department of Health, found men were more likely to have an autism spectrum disorder, characterised by impaired social interaction and communications, severely restricted interests and repetitive behaviour.
People who are single, did not go to university and are living in social housing are also more likely to be autistic.
Tim Straughan, chief executive of the NHS Information Centre, said adults with autism were not given enough help: "This does beg some questions about whether services are meeting the needs of this group of people."
Mark Lever, of the National Autistic Society, said: "This gives us further evidence to demand more vital support."
