Dr. Diego Chaves-Gnecco, MD, MPH, FAAP
Dr. Diego Explains: Taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy or receiving childhood vaccines does not cause autism. Numerous scientific studies have shown that there is no link between these factors and the development of autism spectrum disorder. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition influenced by multiple factors, including genetic and chromosomal alterations or variations.
What is autism? Why are Hispanic/Latino children diagnosed less frequently? What are the warning signs that parents should be aware of?
Juan Garcia is three years old. From an early age, his parents noticed that his development was not progressing at the same pace as his older sister’s. At 18 months, Juan did not say any words or point to ask for something or show interest. His sister, by that age, was already saying several words and pointing to communicate.
Over time, Juan’s parents observed that he did not engage in mimicking games or revealing having any imagination. While his sister played at talking on the phone, Juan preferred spinning the wheels of his trains over and over again and watching the circular motion for long minutes. If they tried to distract him with another game, Juan would get upset, scream, or bang his head against the walls. He did not respond when they called him by name or seek eye contact with his parents. Juan was diagnosed with autism.
Hispanic/Latino Children: Fewer Diagnoses, More Barriers
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every 150 to 175 children between the ages of 4 and 17 has been diagnosed with autism. However, the number of diagnoses among Hispanic/Latino children is lower, not because they suffer less from the condition, but because they are diagnosed less frequently, or later. The causes of this delay are diverse: many Hispanic/Latino parents have never heard of autism, are unaware of the warning signs, or because therapists, teachers, and doctors mistakenly attribute developmental difficulties to bilingualism.
It is important to make it clear that growing up exposed to two languages, Spanish and English, does not cause language delays or other developmental problems.
Autism and Its Spectrum
Not all children with autism have the same symptoms as Juan. The autism spectrum covers a wide range of manifestations and degrees of intensity. Like a rainbow, autism expresses itself in different ways that can affect communication, social skills, and interests in different ways.
According to the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), conditions within the autism spectrum are characterized by difficulties in three main areas:
• Communication and language
• Social interaction and interest
• Restricted or repetitive behaviors and interest.
Warning Signs of Autism
• The child shows no interest in other children
• Does not participate in imaginative or pretend play
• Does not point to ask for or show something
• Speaks little or does not use words expected for their age
• Does not share toys to show interest
• Does not make eye contact or respond when called by name
• Is very sensitive to noises or certain textures of objects or food
• When excited or upset, moves hands repetitively, rocks themselves,
or bangs their head
Having one or more of these characteristics does not necessarily mean that the child has an autism spectrum disorder, but it is a reason to consult a pediatrician.
Early Diagnosis: The Key to Development
An ideal diagnosis of autism is made between 18 months and 3 years of age. Detection after age 5 is considered late and may limit the child’s opportunities for intervention and learning. Early intervention programs are free and available to all families, regardless of immigration status or the child’s place of birth.
Resources and Information in Pennsylvania
• Pennsylvania Early Intervention: 1-800-692-7288
• Autism-related services: 1-866-539-7689
• Salud para Niños [Health for Children]: 412-692-6000 (option 8, during office hours)
DIEGO CHAVES-GNECCO MD, MPH, FAAP, SALUD PARA NIÑOS Program Director & Founder | Professor of Pediatrics, U. of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine
