Goal 1. To understand health and behavior of young children.
It is not clear whether certain health or behavioral characteristics are specific to children with autism or are common to all children with developmental issues. To understand this better we will evaluate and compare children's temperament, ability to interact with others, eating and sleeping habits, digestive disturbances, physical features such as ear shape and finger length, and medical issues since birth. |
Goal 2. To review infection and immune function within families.
The way bodies respond to infection tends to run in families. Researchers want to determine whether certain response patterns may increase the risk for developmental delays or autism. To do this, families will be asked about certain diseases or conditions that parents or children may have. Researchers will also ask to review the mother’s prenatal and child’s pediatric medical records. |
Goal 3. To explore medical issues during pregnancy and how they relate to the development of autism spectrum disorders.
Some pregnancy complications may alter children’s development. Researchers will ask to review the mothers’ prenatal and the child’s pediatric medical records and ask the mother details about her pregnancy with the participating child.
|
Goal 4. To explore the role genetics play in developmental delays and autism.
Researchers do not yet know which genes are related to developmental delays and autism. Because the study is so large and involves so many different families, we have the opportunity to try to understand which genes are related to development. To help us study genes, families will be asked to provide cheek cells and blood samples. |
Goal 5. To explore how family characteristics and behaviors are related to developmental delays and autism.
We want to explore whether lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol use during pregnancy, parents' age, or parents' handling chemicals at work may affect children's development or risk of autism. Families will be asked to complete some questionnaires and interviews to help understand these factors. |
Goal 6. To explore how children’s environments and their genetics might combine to influence their development.
Certain behaviors or family circumstances might only be important in the development of autism if the family also has certain genetic traits. Researchers will look at several family characteristics along with the family genetics to try to find out how they are related to autism. |
|
