Many autism cases 'undiagnosed'

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http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8072127.stm

 

Many autism cases 'undiagnosed'

There may be many children with undiagnosed autism

A significant number of children with autism and related disorders could be

undiagnosed, a study has suggested.

A Cambridge University team looked at existing diagnoses - and carried out

recognised tests to assess other children.

Of the 20,000 studied, 1% had an autistic spectrum disorder, 12 times higher

than the rate 30 years ago.

Autism experts said it was crucial to have accurate data on how many children

were affected by the disorder.

This is important research, which for the first time gives us an estimate of

the number of people who don't have an autism diagnosis but may be in need of

support

Mark Lever, National Autistic Society

The research, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, was carried out in

three parts.

The scientists first looked at cases of autism and Asperger syndrome among 8,824

children on the Special Educational Needs registers in 79 schools in East

Anglia.

A total of 83 cases were reported, giving a prevalence of 94 in 10,000, or 1 in

106 children.

The team then sent a diagnosis survey to parents of 11,700 children in the area.

From 3,373 completed surveys, 41 cases of autism-spectrum conditions were

reported, corresponding to prevalence of 1 in 101.

This 1% rate confirms estimates from previous research.

They then sent the Childhood Autism Screening Test (CAST) to the same parents to

help identify any undiagnosed cases of autism-spectrum conditions.

All those with high scores, plus some who had medium and low scores, were called

in for further assessment.

The team found an additional 11 children who met the criteria for an autism

spectrum condition, but had not yet been diagnosed.

Support needs

The researchers say that, if these findings were extrapolated to the wider

population, for every three known cases of autism spectrum, there may be a

further two cases that are undiagnosed.

Professor Baron-Cohen said: " In terms of providing services, if we want to be

prepared for the maximum numbers that might come through, these undiagnosed

cases might be significant.

" It is important to conduct epidemiological studies of autism spectrum

conditions so that the relevant services, including education, health and social

services, can plan adequate provision for all those children and adults who may

need support. "

Mark Lever, National Autistic Society chief executive, said: " This is important

research, which for the first time gives us an estimate of the number of people

who don't have an autism diagnosis but may be in need of support.

" Getting the right support at the right time is vitally important and access to

appropriate diagnostic services is crucial. "

He said the NAS was campaigning for statutory guidance for diagnosis included as

part of the proposed Autism Bill to try and improve improvement in local

authority and NHS services.

Love, Gabby. :0)

http://stemcellforautism.blogspot.com/

 

" I know of nobody who is purely Autistic or purely neurotypical. Even God had

some Autistic moments, which is why the planets all spin. " ~ Jerry Newport