| Autism A.L.A.R.M. |
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Autism is prevalent • 1 out of 6 children are diagnosed with a developmental disorder and/or behavioral problem • 1 in 166 children are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder • Developmental disorders have subtle signs and may be easily missed Listen to parents • Early signs of autism are often present before 18 months • Parents usually DO have concerns that something is wrong • Parents generally DO give accurate and quality information • When parents do not spontaneously raise concerns, ask if they have any Act early • Make screening and surveillance an important part of your practice (as endorsed by the AAP) • Know the subtle differences between typical and atypical development • Learn to recognize red flags • Use validated screening tools and identify problems early • Improve the quality of life for children and their families through early and appropriate intervention Refer • To Early Intervention or a local school program (do not wait for a diagnosis) • To an autism specialist, or team of specialists, immediately for a definitive diagnosis • To audiology and rule out a hearing impairment • To local community resources for help and family support Monitor • Schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss concerns more thoroughly • Look for other features known to be associated with autism • Educate parents and provide them with up-to-date information • Advocate for families with local early intervention programs, schools, respite care agencies, and insurance companies • Continue surveillance and watch for additional or late signs of autism and/or other developmental disorders For More Information: www.medicalhomeinfo.org The recommendations in this document do not indicate an exclusive course of treatment or serve as a standard of medical care. Variations, taking into account individual circumstances, may be appropriate. January 2004 This project is funded by a cooperative agreement between the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. |