A new study out of Boston Children's Hospital suggests nearly 40% of children diagnosed with autism as toddlers no longer meet the criteria for the disorder around the age of six. The researchers say these findings should encourage parents to remain open to the possibility of an evolving diagnosis.
The study included 213 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at 12 to 36 months of age. All of them received interventions after their initial diagnosis, especially within the first 18 months. The children underwent additional diagnostic assessments between 5 and 7 years of age, and the results showed 37% no longer met the criteria for ASD by around 6 years old. Those with lower adaptive skills were more likely to have ASD persist later in life.
The lead author says, "Our research shows how important it is that we monitor kids over time because some children may really have changes in their social communication and behavioral function." This underscores the need for continuous assessments and adaptable intervention strategies.
Another author says while it's possible the children who no longer had autism responded better to treatment, "The findings of the study should cause a very frank reconsideration of the need for far more research to understand if current treatment for autism is working or if major new efforts to develop treatment approaches are needed".
