Autism risk linked to prematurity is more accentuated in girls.

Leora AllenOdelia Leon-AttiaMeirav ShahamShahar SheferLidia V Gabis

Published in: PloS one (2020)

A statistically significant increase in rates of autism was found with each additional week of prematurity. Females drove this direct risk related to degree of prematurity, while males had an elevated risk throughout prematurity weeks, even at near-term. We recommend including ASD screening in follow up of infants born prematurely, at all levels of prematurity.

Keyphrases

preterm infants
low birth weight
autism spectrum disorder
intellectual disability
gestational age
preterm birth
placebo controlled