CDC Kerala 13: Antenatal, natal and postnatal factors among children (2-6 y) with autism--a case control study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with multifactorial etiology.
• Identifying prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal risk factors is crucial for early intervention and prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare antenatal, natal, and postnatal risk factors in children diagnosed with autism versus a control group of typically developing children.
• To determine the association between specific maternal and environmental factors and the development of autism in early childhood.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study was conducted with 143 children aged 2-6 years diagnosed with autism (CARS score ≥ 30).
• A control group of 200 typically developing children from the same age range was recruited.
• Data on 35 potential risk factors (21 antenatal, 8 natal, 6 postnatal) were collected using a structured questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Multivariate analysis revealed significant associations between autism and: excess fetal movement (OR=11.44), maternal respiratory infection/asthma (OR=6.11), maternal vaginal infection (OR=5.20), maternal hypothyroidism (OR=4.25), and family history of neurodevelopmental disorders (OR=2.90).
• These factors demonstrated statistically significant high odds ratios, indicating a heightened risk for autism.

Conclusions:

• Excess fetal movement, maternal respiratory and vaginal infections, maternal hypothyroidism, and a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders are identified as significant potential risk factors for autism in children aged 2-6 years.
• These findings underscore the importance of considering maternal health and family history in the context of autism risk assessment.