Current study results from the report, 'Birth prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in the San Francisco Bay area by demographic and ascertainment source characteristics,' have been published. 'Using standardized methods for multi-source surveillance, we calculated the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) among children born in a racially diverse region in 1994 or 1996 as 4.7/1000 live births. Children with ASD before age 9 were identified through chart abstraction at health-related sources; three-quarters were being served by the state-wide Department of Developmental Services,' scientists in Richmond, California report.
'In adjusted models, we found a male:female ratio of 6:1, a doubling of ASD prevalence among children of older mothers (40+), and lower prevalence with lower paternal education. Children of Black or Hispanic mothers had lower prevalence than those of White, non-Hispanic mothers, but these differences were attenuated after adjustment. Prevalence in children of Asian mothers was similar to Whites,' wrote G.C. Windham and colleagues, Department of Public Health.
The researchers concluded: 'Potential under-counting is discussed.'
Windham and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (Birth prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in the San Francisco Bay area by demographic and ascertainment source characteristics. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2011;41(10):1362-72).
For additional information, contact G.C. Windham, Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Dept. of Public Health, 850 Marina Bay Parkway, Richmond, CA 94804, United States.
The publisher's contact information for the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders is: Springer, 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013, USA.
Keywords: City:Richmond, State:California, Country:United States, Region:North and Central America, Neurology, Pediatrics, Developmental Disabilities.
This article was prepared by Pediatrics Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2012, Pediatrics Week via NewsRx.com.
