Premature birth as a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder

Authors

Rachel L. Goldin, Department of Psychology , Louisiana State University , Baton Rouge , LA , USA.
Johnny L. Matson, Department of Psychology , Louisiana State University , Baton Rouge , LA , USA.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2016

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is common, life-long in nature, and can be very debilitating. Thus, an intensive search is on to identify the potential risk factors for the disorder. Premature birth has been identified as one potential factor that could influence potential symptoms of ASD. METHOD: The sample for this study consisted of 1655 at risk children for developmental delays who were 17-37 months of age. Participants were divided into those diagnosed with ASD (n = 916) and children with atypical development only (n = 739). RESULTS: Premature births were almost twice as common for the atypical development group versus the ASD group. CONCLUSIONS: Implications of these data are discussed.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Developmental neurorehabilitation

First Page

203

Last Page

6

Recommended Citation

Goldin, R. L., & Matson, J. L. (2016). Premature birth as a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder. Developmental neurorehabilitation, 19 (3), 203-6. https://doi.org/10.3109/17518423.2015.1044132