Helps quickly include sufferers in treatment programs
Retina scan detects autism early
The test was conducted on 70 children using the new technology.
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A scientist from Hong Kong has developed a method for using artificial intelligence and machine learning to scan the retina of children, starting at the age of six, for early detection of autism or the risk of developing it, and hopes to develop a commercial product, this year.
The professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Benny Zi, said that retinal scanning could help improve the chances of early detection and treatment outcomes for children.
He added, "The importance of starting early intervention is that they are still developing, and they are still developing, so there is a greater chance of success."
The Z-method uses a high-resolution camera with a new computer program that analyzes a range of factors, including the layers of fibers and blood vessels in the eye.
He indicated that technology could be used to identify children at risk of developing autism and expedite their inclusion in treatment programs.
70 children were tested using the new technology, including 46 with autism, and a control group of 24 children.
The technology was able to identify children with autism by 95.7%.
The average age of those participating in the experiment was 13 years, and the youngest was six years old.
Zee's findings were published in e-Clinical Medicine, a medical journal that is subject to peer review, meaning that papers are not published until they are reviewed by researchers specializing in the same field.
Autism specialists welcomed Zay's findings, but said there was still a major stigma, as parents are often reluctant to believe that their children suffer from autism, even when there are clear signs.
Zai confirmed to "Reuters" that his research aims to be a complementary tool for professional evaluation carried out by professionals with a license in health care.
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