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Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in adolescents born weighing <2000 grams

Jennifer A Pinto-Martin1, Susan E Levy, Judith F Feldman

  • 1University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4217, USA. pinto@nursing.upenn.edu

Pediatrics
|October 19, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence was estimated at 5% in a low birth weight (LBW) cohort. This rate is higher than in the general population, highlighting the need for early screening in LBW infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Pediatric Health
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Low birth weight (LBW) infants face increased risks for developmental challenges.
  • Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions.
  • Early identification and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes in ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the diagnostic prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in a cohort of infants born with low birth weight (LBW).
  • To compare the ASD prevalence in LBW individuals to the general population.

Main Methods:

  • A regional birth cohort of 1105 infants weighing less than 2000g were followed up to 21 years.
  • Adolescents were screened for ASD at age 16 using the Social Communication Questionnaire and Autism Spectrum Symptoms Questionnaire.
  • Diagnostic confirmation for ASD was performed at age 21 using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised.

Main Results:

  • The estimated diagnostic prevalence of ASD in the LBW cohort was 5% (31 out of 623 individuals).
  • ASD was diagnosed in 14.3% of screen-positive individuals and 2.5% of screen-negative individuals.
  • The prevalence in the LBW cohort was significantly higher than in the general US population in 2006.

Conclusions:

  • The diagnostic prevalence of ASD is elevated in preterm infants with low birth weight.
  • Findings underscore the importance of targeted screening for ASD in LBW populations.
  • This study provides critical data for public health initiatives and clinical practice concerning developmental surveillance in high-risk infant populations.
Abstract

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