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. 2021 Feb;51(2):538-549.
doi: 10.1007/s10803-020-04563-8.

A High Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Preschool Children in an Immigrant, Multiethnic Population in Sweden: Challenges for Health Care

Petra Linnsand  1   2 , Christopher Gillberg  3 , Åsa Nilses  4 , Bibbi Hagberg  3 , Gudrun Nygren  3   5
Affiliations

A High Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Preschool Children in an Immigrant, Multiethnic Population in Sweden: Challenges for Health Care

Petra Linnsand et al. J Autism Dev Disord. 2021 Feb.

Abstract

This study examines the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in preschool children in an immigrant population. Possible risk factors for ASD and individual needs for the children and their families are described, as well as implications for health care. The estimated minimum prevalence for ASD in the area was 3.66% for children aged 2-5 years. Multiple risk factors and extensive individual needs for the children and their families were observed. The high prevalence of ASD and the plethora of needs in immigrant communities pose challenges for health care. A coordinated health care system is necessary to meet the many and individual needs.

Keywords: Autism; Health care; Immigrant population; Prevalence.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no competing or potential conflicts of interest.

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