Task Force Concludes There’s Insufficient Evidence For Across-The-Board Autism Screening
Although the panel's decision is sure to draw strong reactions from autism advocates, one of the members says it's not a recommendation against screening, but a call for more research surrounding treatment.
NPR:
Panel Says Evidence Is Lacking On Universal Screening For Autism
The earlier a child with autism can be identified and get treatment the better, child development specialists say. So there's been a push to have pediatricians give all toddlers screening tests for autism during well child visits. But the influential U.S. Preventive Services Task Force said Tuesday that there's not yet enough evidence to show that screening all children delivers measurable benefits, a decision sure to frustrate or anger many in the autism community. (Shute, 2/16)
Kaiser Health News:
Task Force: Not Enough Evidence To Recommend ‘For Or Against’ Universal Autism Screening For Very Young Kids
Sparking strong reaction from doctors and child development experts, an influential task force says there’s “insufficient evidence” to argue definitely that the benefits of screening all young children for autism outweigh the harms. “There’s not enough evidence for us to recommend for or against screening in children for autism under 30 months,” said David Grossman, vice chair of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and a Seattle pediatrician. (Luthra, 2/16)
The Columbus Dispatch:
Federal Task Force Says Evidence Insufficient For Universal Screening For Autism
An influential government panel has concluded that evidence is insufficient to recommend autism screening for all toddlers, a position contrary to guidelines from other health associations and advocacy groups. (Price, 2/16)