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Development problems higher in children with autistic siblings

Atypical development in siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be detected as early as 12 months of age, according to a recent study.

Researchers found almost half of children who had siblings with ASD experienced impaired development. Deficits included problems in social, communication, cognitive or motor development.

Some 294 infants with siblings who had ASD and 116 infants whose siblings showed typical development took part in the study. Researchers administered developmental tests every six months from six to 36 months of age.

Lead researcher Professor Sally Ozonoff said children with siblings who suffer from ASD should be screened regularly for developmental problems.

Read more at University of California and Purdue University

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