In a study involving 1,500 infants born at least 3 months premature, spread out over 14 hospitals, in 5 states, and a screening method called M-CHAT, researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine notes a sharp increase in diagnosis of autism.

Researchers at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention have noted that low birth weight and/or preterm delivery may increase the likelihood of developmental delays with a higher risk ocurring in girls. The study compared 565 autistic children with 578 children of the same age that were not autistic.

In a small group tested, findings indicate that babies born prematurely are at risk for many developmental problems. The risk is greater for those born prematurely and have a lower birth weight.