Predictors of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in a spanish sample of preterm children with very low birthweight: A cross‐sectional study

[EN]Background and Aims: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a higher likelihood of being diagnosed in preterm populations. Likewise, low birthweight has also been connected with an increased likelihood of ASD. The objectives were to study the frequency and define th...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Magán Maganto, María Carmen, Canal Bedia, Ricardo, Bejarano Martín, Álvaro, Martín Cilleros, María Victoria, Hernández Fabián, Aránzazu, Calvarro Castañeda, Andrea Luz, Roeyers, Herbert, Jenaro Río, Cristina, Posada de la Paz, Manuel
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2023
País:España
Institución:Universidad de Salamanca (USAL)
Repositorio:GREDOS. Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Salamanca
OAI Identifier:oai:gredos.usal.es:10366/155586
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/10366/155586
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Autistic spectrum disorder
Epidemiology
Neuropsychology
Preterm birth
3207.11 Neuropatología
Descripción
Sumario:[EN]Background and Aims: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a higher likelihood of being diagnosed in preterm populations. Likewise, low birthweight has also been connected with an increased likelihood of ASD. The objectives were to study the frequency and define the relationship between ASD, gestational age, birthweight, and growth percentiles for preterm children. Methods: A sample of preterm children with very low birthweight was selected from the Spanish population at 7–10 years old. Families were contacted from the hospital, and they were offered an appointment to conduct a neuropsychological assessment. The children who showed signs of ASD were referred to the diagnostic unit for differential diagnosis. Results: A total of 57 children completed full assessments, with 4 confirmed ASD diagnoses. The estimated prevalence was 7.02%. There were statistically significant weak correlations between ASD and gestational age (τb = −0.23), and birthweight (τb = −0.25), suggesting there is a higher likelihood of developing ASD for those born smaller or earlier in their gestation. Conclusion: These results could improve ASD detection and outcomes for this vulnerable population while also supporting and enhancing previous findings.