Risk Factors and Characteristics

Studies have shown that among identical twins, if one child has an ASD, then the other will be
affected about 60-96% of the time. In non-identical twins, if one child has an ASD, then the other
is affected about 0-24% of the time. Parents who have a child with an ASD have a 2%–8%
chance of having a second child who is also affected. It is estimated that about 10% of children
with an ASD have an identifiable genetic, neurologic or metabolic disorder, such as fragile X or
Down syndrome. As we learn more about genetics, the number of children with an ASD and an
identifiable genetic condition will likely increase. A study published by CDC in 2007, found that
33-59% of the children who had an ASD also had an Intellectual Disability (intelligence quotient
<=70). To read the articles that support this data, please go to the CDC’s website: www.cdc.gov

Possible Red Flags

Children and adults with an autism spectrum disorder might:
Not play "pretend" games (pretend to "feed" a doll)
Not point at objects to show interest (point at an airplane flying over)
Not look at objects when another person points at them
Have trouble relating to others or not have an interest in other people at all
Avoid eye contact and want to be alone
Have trouble understanding other people's feelings or talking about their own feelings
Prefer not to be held or cuddled or might cuddle only when they want to
Appear to be unaware when other people talk to them but respond to other sounds
Be very interested in people, but not know how to talk to, play with, or relate to them
Repeat or echo words or phrases said to them, or repeat words or phrases in place of normal
language (echolalia)
Have trouble expressing their needs using typical words or motions
Repeat actions over and over again
Have trouble adapting to changes in routine
Have unusual reactions to the way things smell, taste, look, feel, or sound
Lose skills they once had (for instance, stop saying words they were once using)
Talk to your child’s doctor or nurse if your child loses skills at any age.

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