International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Noting where a baby's attention and gaze lie could be an early, yet subtle, indicator of autism, according to a new study.

When left to their own devices, babies who are considered to be at high risk from the disorder tend to become fixated by a non-social toy, the study by researchers at the US Kennedy Krieger institute and University of Delaware revealed.

According to the National Autistic Society, the condition is a lifelong developmental disability which affects the way a person communicates with and relates to the world around them, as well as the other people in it.

People with autistic siblings are 25 times more likely to develop the condition compared with those with no family history.

"This study shows that there is a particular vulnerability in high-risk siblings at six months of age," said study author Dr Rebecca Landa

"They are not as socially interactive and engaged on their own as their peers, but still respond typically when engaged by their caregivers, making for a subtle difference that could be easily overlooked by both parents and some professionals."

Posted by Alexandra George