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We implemented screening of children 16-30 months of age (n = 1,760) from a typically under-served, primarily Hispanic, population, at routine pediatric appointments using the modified checklist for autism in toddlers (M-CHAT) and Ages and Stages Questionnaire. Screen positive rates of 26 and 39%, respectively, were higher than previous reports. Hispanics were more likely to score M-CHAT positive than non-Hispanics (adjusted OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2-2.4), as were those screened in Spanish. About 30% of screen-positive children were referred for further assessment, but only half were seen. Thus screening in this population is feasible, but may require additional resources. Attention to the cultural applicability of screening instruments, as well as to explaining the results or need for additional services to parents, is critical to serve the growing Hispanic population.

The neurodevelopmental course of 219 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit graduates followed prospectively over 2 years was determined on retrospective chart review. Mild neuromotor abnormalities during the first year were identified in 50%, three-quarters of which proved transient with normal development at 2 years of age. Moderate abnormalities were identified in 7%, half of which proved transient. Severe neuromotor abnormalities were identified in 20%, two-thirds of whom had cerebral palsy at 2 years. Persistent noncerebral palsy neuromotor abnormalities remained in one-third of those in the severe abnormality group, one-half of those in the moderate abnormality group, and one-quarter of those in the mild abnormality group. As birthweight decreased, the incidence of always normal development and transient neuromotor abnormalities decreased while the incidence of persistent neuromotor abnormalities increased. Small for gestational age infants demonstrated a slightly higher incidence of persistent abnormalities than their appropriate for gestational age counterparts. No significant sex differences were observed.