Senior Blogger
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s most current statistic states that 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with autism and that boys are five (5) times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls. While the cause remains unknown and many theories abound, what is certain is that the earlier treatment can occur, the greater the chance a child has for reaching his or her fullest potential. We are currently at an advantage in regards to being much more aware of autism and its symptoms, and advances in research can hopefully someday lead us to detection in utero (or at least provide ways in which to avoid the risk of ASD [Autism Spectrum Disorder] in utero). But for now, we still have the ability to consistently detect ASD as early as 12 months.
There have been several diagnostic tools developed to help mental and physical health practitioners detect autism in a child who is 12–18 months old. Some of these tests include e the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ), the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (MCHAT), and the Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and Children (STAT). In addition, because of the level of awareness and education today, parents themselves are more in-tune with the signs of ASD and often express concern by age 12–18 months. The newest recommendation for early detection is screening.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children, not just those at risk, be screened for developmental delays during their 9 month, 18 month, and 24 or 30 month wellness visits. The AAP also recommends screening specifically for autism at the 18 and 24 month visits. Naturally, if a child has been deemed as being at risk, such as having a sibling with ASD or certain delays have been observed, further screening is necessary. Some of these delays include: not babbling or gesturing by 12 months, not using single words by 16 months, not using spontaneous speech (two-word phrases) by 24 months, or losing any language or social skills at any age. If a pediatrician has raised concerns about a child’s development, a referral may then be made to either a Developmental Pediatrician or a Psychologist/Psychiatrist for further assessment.
What about prior to 12 months? A diagnosis is likely not going to be given unless the child clearly demonstrates severe symptoms such as engaging in frequent self-stimulatory behavior (stereotyped and repetitive movements), arching away from the parent, not wanting to be held, and not establishing eye contact. If symptoms are mild, however, it will be more difficult to definitively diagnosis a child that young with autism, but as stated above, research is ongoing. An increased head circumference and the absence of head tilt are two (2) plausible biomarkers for autism by nine (9) months of age that have seen recent support from research. Other early markers can include a lack of big smiles or expressions of joy by six (6) months and a lack of reciprocal engagement with adults in regards to sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine (9) months.
Overall, the ability to detect autism at earlier stages has advanced a great deal over the years. The importance of this is immeasurable, as it allows treatment to begin at an early age. With early intervention comes the improved ability to demonstrate considerable progress in regards to communication and socialization as well as a lessening of self-stimulatory behavior, perseverative (obsessive) behavior, or sensory problems.
What history has taught us is that research needs to continue, despite what the thinking of the day entails. For example, there used to be a belief that autism was the result of schizophrenia or bad parenting and as a result individuals with autism were institutionalized. Now, we take a proactive approach and have a desire to increase awareness on a global scale. Who knows what the future will bring, but it certainly looks promising, in regards to more indications of genetics playing a role. While a cure may be many years away, learning how to detect autism earlier and possibly even learning how to prevent autism seems just within reach.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, do not hesitate to talk with your child’s pediatrician. A wonderful source for learning about the signs and symptoms of autism is www.autismspeaks.com. Aside from a list of symptoms, you can also find the M-CHAT as well as an incredibly thorough Video Glossary which includes over 100 video clips that demonstrate all of the subtle differences between typical children and those with autism.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, do not hesitate to talk with your child’s pediatrician. A wonderful source for learning about the signs and symptoms of autism is www.autismspeaks.com. Aside from a list of symptoms, you can also find the M-CHAT, as well as an incredibly thorough Video Glossary which includes over 100 video clips that demonstrate all of the subtle differences between young, typical children and those with autism. Other useful websites which provide valuable information on autism, including recent research, treatment techniques, etc. are www.autism-society.org and www.autism.com.
References:
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Al-Qabandi, M., Gorter, J.W., & Rosenbaum, P. (2011). Early Autism Detection: Are We Ready for Routine Screening? Pediatrics, 128 (1), 1-7.