Expert: James Michael Roan - 4/13/2006

Question
Dr. Roan,
I have a 2 1/2 yr old grandson who I am taking to a speach therapist on May 2nd to be evaluated for possible autism.  His parents are worried because he doesn't speek, but they have no idea of my concerns about autism.  I am concerned because my daughter has mentioned she is trying to have a 2nd child.  If my grandson is diagnosed with Autism, what are the chances of my other grandchildren being autistic?  Are they the same as anyone else, or will my daughter have a greater chance of her children being autistic?  I need to know as soon as possible!

Worried Grandmother


Answer
Hello Connie;

Please make sure the speech therapist is qualified and/or experienced in diagnosing autism.

Last year, the statistical odds of your daughter having another child with autism, assuming this child has it, is 6 times greater than if this child does not have autism. There are many causes for language delay aside from autism.

I wish you luck.

Kind Regards,
James