As per a recent statement from the agency, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is presently doubtful over whether autism screening for young children is useful or if it may even potentially be risky.

Generally, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screening begins between the ages of 18 and 30 months. But, many a times it is carried out without a parent or caregiver expressing delay. Officials have said that so, there has been a lack of proof regarding the outcomes for screening in order for children to get early diagnosis.

While speaking to Reuters, Dr. David Grossman, vice chair of the USPSTF, said that there recommendation isn’t a recommendation against screening, but a call for further study.

Reviewing the existing information on autism studies, the USPSTF concluded that presently, there isn’t sufficient evidence to screen for the disorder development if symptoms aren’t present. So, for now, they have suggested that parents and doctors should work together in the direction of the decision to screen.

According to the nonprofit group Autism Speaks, typically, the developmental disorder is marked by intellectual disability, with symptoms such as difficulties in motor coordination, attention and physical health issues like gastrointestinal and sleep issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that the problem is more frequently seen in boys as compared to girls.

In the US, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has become more common. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that 1 in 68 children suffer from autism, registering a 30% rise from 10 years back, when roughly 1 in 88 children got an autism diagnosis.

As per some experts, autism screening must become a routine part of pediatric care, no matter whether a child shows signs of autism or whether parents or the physician express concern or not.

However, on Tuesday, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) came out with its final recommendations for autism screening in young children. It has argued that there is limited proof in support of a universal approach to autism screening for children belonging to the age group 18 to 30 months.