A SIMPLE two-minute test could detect autism in toddlers far earlier than any other test, new research suggests.

Currently autism diagnoses are not made until children are about five years old and symptoms are normally picked up when a child reaches three.

3 The test asks parents to analyse some of their children's behaviour

But experts from Rutgers University have developed a test that could help parents and doctors recognise the disorder earlier.

The Psychological Development Questionnaire (PDQ-1) can spot autism 88 per cent of the time, according to the researchers.

Some 1,959 children aged 18 to 36 months that were not known to have any developmental problems took part in the study.

Those who received low PDQ-1 scores were considered to be at risk of autism and were referred for evaluation to determine if they were on the spectrum.

3 The Psychological Development Questionnaire (PDQ-1) can spot autism 88 per cent of the time

A low score would be getting more "no" answers than "yes" answers - and are more likely to be on the spectrum.

Lead author Walter Zahorodny, a professor in paediatrics at the university, said: "The availability of valid and efficient screeners, like the PDQ-1, may enhance our ability to detect ASD in young children and expand the number of youngsters receiving early intervention."

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an incurable, lifelong developmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others.

It affects around one in 100 people in the UK and is three to four times more common in boys than in girls.

3 Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an incurable, lifelong developmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others Credit: Alamy

Many people with ASD find it hard to understand other people's feelings and emotions, and they may have difficulty holding conversations.

When they are young, their language development may take longer and they can struggle to use facial expressions, using gestures to communicate instead.

KNOW THE SIGNS What is autism spectrum disorder, does it run in families, what are the early signs and symptoms and is there a test?

They may also find it hard to connect with other people and to hold eye contact with unfamiliar individuals.

Many children with ASD like to follow a routine, and changes to this can cause distress.

The PDQ-1 test asked parents to look at whether their child points or gestures to show interest or get attention, responds to their name, enjoys playing peek-a-boo, speaks in phrases and relates to others.

Zahorodny added: "Diagnosis of autism can only be accomplished through comprehensive evaluation by a professional.

"Effective screening is but the first step toward diagnosis.

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"If we want to improve early detection, easy-to-use and reliable autism screeners need to be widely used."

The researchers noted that no single behavioural or observational test was likely to be reliable for all children.

The findings were published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioural Paediatrics.

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