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Feasibility of Large-Scale Development-Focused EEG Research in a Hospital-Based Primary Care Setting.
Kathleen Conroy1, Carol L Wilkinson2, Brianna Francis3
1Harvard Medical School (K Conroy, CL Wilkinson, and CA Nelson), Boston, Mass; Division of General Pediatrics (K Conroy), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass.
Academic Pediatrics
|October 29, 2025
Summary
Embedding electroencephalography (EEG) research in primary care is feasible for early autism spectrum disorder screening. This method successfully included diverse, underserved populations, enhancing research applicability.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Research
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder diagnosis age varies by sociodemographic factors, necessitating earlier, unbiased screening.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) shows promise as an early autism biomarker.
- Feasibility of EEG in primary care for underserved populations needs exploration.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate the feasibility of integrating longitudinal EEG and survey data collection into primary care.
- Address disparities in autism screening and diagnosis.
- Enhance the applicability of pediatric research.
Main Methods:
- The Baby Steps study enrolled infants before 4-month well-child visits in an urban primary care clinic.
- EEG and parent surveys were collected at 4, 9, and 12 months.
- Feasibility assessed via recruitment, retention, and data quality for the first 250 participants.
Main Results:
- Recruitment reflected clinic demographics (53% Hispanic/Latina/e, 36% Black); 64% publicly insured.
- 94% participant retention through 12 months; 87% had EEG data at ≥2 time points.
- Survey completion ranged from 65-78%, unaffected by sociodemographics.
Conclusions:
- Integrating EEG research into primary care settings is feasible.
- This approach successfully includes underserved populations in autism research.
- The study offers a model for pediatric research in diverse settings.
