Early Screening and Referral for Autism Spectrum and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Infants Under 1 Year at Maternal and Child Protection Services in France

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare two methods of early screening to identify infants at risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. It targets infants under 12 months of age to provide early access to care, hoping to improve outcomes by detecting developmental delays compared to typical age expectations. The study is conducted at multiple Maternal and Child Protection Services in France and follows infants up to 48 months of age. Two screening approaches are evaluated during routine visits for vaccinations or developmental exams at 4 and 9 months. One method involves a health professional assessing neurodevelopment through routine observations of motor skills, vocalizations, babbling, and social interactions. The other method uses the PREAUT grid, a specific screening tool for autism spectrum disorders. Infants showing abnormal results are referred promptly to specialized centers for further advice and treatment when needed. Participants will have follow-ups at 12, 24, and 36 months including developmental assessments like the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers and the Child Development Inventory. Additional diagnostic tools are used if initial tests indicate concerns. The study also collects data on treatments received, parental psychological state, quality of life, and family impact. Health insurance data will track care pathways up to 48 months. The main outcome is the proportion of children diagnosed and receiving care before age one.

Early Detection and Referral for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders at the Maternal and Child Protection Services