TUCSON, Ariz. — A new study by the Journal of American Medical Association shows kids should be screened for autism as early as 14 months.
The current recommendation is to start screening at 18 months, but the study suggests the sooner a child is screened the better off they are for the future.
"The earlier we can identify something like autism, the earlier kids can get into services, get therapy support," said Development Behavioral Pediatrician with Banner Health Catherine Riley said. "The earlier we know, the earlier the interventions start."
Riley said during every regular doctor visit, a pediatrician is already looking for signs of developmental concerns like autism. This includes eye contact, gestures like pointing or looking when someone calls the child's name.
Parents can also help with early detection of autism with a new app by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Riley said. The app is called the 'CDC's Milestone tracker, and it allows parents to track their child's milestones, which helps doctors look for signs of developmental concerns.
Riley said this new study is a good start to keep pushing for early detection.
"I think it certainly helps shed light on the on going need for early screening," Riley said. "It may help people look more at what tools could we modify, and what else might become available down the road to make that screening easier."