Does quitting smoking or alcohol matter more with advanced parental age and autism? 

The link between smoking, alcohol and autism risk has long been under investigation, but when combined with advanced parental age, the stakes may be even higher. As age increases, so does the sensitivity of developing foetal systems to environmental and lifestyle exposures. 

Emerging studies suggest that smoking, alcohol, and autism risk may be compounded when parents are older. This is due to a combination of age-related genetic vulnerability and heightened impact from harmful substances. Both tobacco and alcohol can alter DNA expression and contribute to prenatal exposure and autism risk, making lifestyle choices especially important for parents over 35. 

Why quitting matters more with age 

Here’s how smoking, alcohol, and autism risk may increase for older parents: 

Greater developmental sensitivity  

Foetal brains may be more vulnerable to toxic substances when exposed in the context of advanced parental age, amplifying the effect of lifestyle factors in autism that researchers are tracking. 

Cumulative impact of age and environment  

The interaction between prenatal exposure and autism risks and existing age-related genetic changes means that eliminating smoking and alcohol can be a key step in risk reduction. 

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how smoking, alcohol, and autism risk may apply to your health profile and family goals. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Advanced Parental Age.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.