(Baltimore Sun) A simple “pull-to-sit” test on infants at six months old may help doctors predict autism and other delays, a new study has found.
The study by Kennedy Krieger Institute researchers looked at infants at high genetic risk for autism and found many had weak head and neck control. A large number went on to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, though some had other, more mild language or social delays.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The test, added to other developmental measurements already taken of babies, would provide a red flag for parents of all infants, said Dr. Rebecca Landa, study author and director of Kennedy Krieger’s Center for Autism and Related Disorders. The parents could then seek advice on whether to begin activities to improve performance.
