Show-Me State Times

Researchers at the University of Missouri's Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment have been conducting a study to determine if early signs of autism can be detected in infants as young as nine months. Traditionally, autism is diagnosed in children aged 3 to 5, but the latest findings suggest potential indicators of autism risk can be observed much earlier.

Lead researchers Erin Andres and Stephen Sheinkopf reported in their study that specific behaviors at nine months could predict autism risk at one year. Parents of nine-month-old infants provided data through the Survey of Well-Being of Young Children, focusing on their children's temperaments and adaptability. The survey included questions about frequent crying, difficulty calming, and challenges with new environments.

When the children reached 12 months, their parents completed a screening questionnaire focused on communication, sensory sensitivities, and repetitive behaviors. The questionnaire evaluated whether infants reacted to their names or were disturbed by loud noises.

Sheinkopf stated, "What we found was the infants at 9 months who were reported to be fussier had a harder time adapting, more difficulty sleeping and more delays in achieving developmental milestones were more likely to show signs of early autism by 12 months."

These findings suggest that early parental feedback on infant behavior might help identify autism or developmental delays sooner than previously possible. While it remains uncertain if early signs directly lead to an autism diagnosis, the study could aid in recognizing infants who require early developmental support and improve pediatric assessments.

"Whether it’s helping infants develop language skills closer to their age-expected levels or developing early social skills that will help them thrive in preschool, we want all kids to flourish," Sheinkopf added.

The research team plans to continue gathering extensive data on infants' development, noting the importance of parental observations. "Parents are intuitive," Sheinkopf emphasized, acknowledging their insight into their children’s development.

The hope is that this research will ultimately enhance machine learning and electronic medical record systems to better identify and assist children at risk of autism or other developmental differences.

Reflecting on the impact of the study, Andres mentioned feedback from parents at conferences. "Parents will often tell me about conversations they have with their doctor regarding their infant’s crying patterns or difficulty calming down," she noted. "They are glad to see that we are researching this topic, and they are very interested in these infant characteristics being measured earlier, too."

Andres has a personal connection to the research, given her family's history of dyslexia. "My own family has a history of dyslexia, and early language skills are one of the biggest predictors of reading success," she stated. "Looking at language milestones for infants and identifying those who can benefit from extra supports is very rewarding."

The study, titled "Caregiver report of infant behavior associated with autism likelihood in first year of life," has been published in Pediatric Research.