Autism in young children could be detected early with AI tool

A team of scientists with expertise in food science and computer science/computer engineering are collaborating to develop a machine learning tool that can assist doctors and parents in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in young children. 

The researchers have looked at biometric data and behavioural responses to strong smells and tastes as a way of detecting indicators of autism.

The University of Arkansas’ Han-Seok Seo and Khoa Luu have created a deep-learning algorithm that could potentially identify sensory cues from various foods in both neurotypical children and those known to be on the spectrum. The AI then analyses these responses, detecting the cases in which they correlate with behaviours associated with autism. 

In addition to difficulties in certain social interactions, children with ASD often exhibit abnormal eating behaviours, such as avoidance of certain foods, specific mealtime requirements and non-social eating.

Aware of the risks associated with food avoidance – including vitamin and mineral deficiencies – the Arkansas duo intend to identify sensory cues from food items that trigger atypical perceptions or behaviours during ingestion. This would include, for example, strong reactions to the smell of food such as peppermint, lemons and cloves, which often trigger reactions in ASD that reveal anger, surprise or disgust.

Seo and Luu’s ultimate goal is to create an algorithm that exhibits equal or better performance in the early detection of autism in children than traditional diagnostic methods, which typically require trained professionals; longer assessment durations; caregiver-submitted questionnaires, and additional medical costs.

While the system being proposed would not likely be the final word in a diagnosis, it could provide parents with an initial screening tool, ideally eliminating children who are not candidates for ASD whilst still ensuring the most likely candidates pursue a more comprehensive screening process.

This tool would have been extremely useful for Seo after worrying about his newborn daughter’s tendency to avoid eye contact, a common trait in ASD children. Although his child did not end up having ASD, the experience sparked Seo’s interest and prompted him to design a solution that would help anxious parents similar to himself. 

The pair are conducting the study through a three-year, $150,000 grant from the Arkansas Biosciences Institute and are currently testing the algorithm on ASD and neurotypical children aged 5 to 14.