Hong Kong Scientists Develop Eye Scanning Technology For Early Detection Of Child Autism

Illustration. (Wikimedia Commons / Lance Nellson)

JAKARTA - Hong Kong scientists developed a retina scan method for children aged six years, to detect early autism or the risk of autism in children.

It is Benny Zee, a professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong who believes that retinal scanning of the eye can help improve early detection and treatment outcomes for children.

"The importance of starting early intervention is, they are still growing, they are still developing. So the chances of success are greater," said Zee, as reported by Reuters.

Further explained by him, the method used is to use a high-resolution camera, with computer software created to analyze a combination of factors, including the layer of fibers and blood vessels in the eye.

Zee said the technology could be used to identify children at risk for autism, getting them into treatment programs more quickly.

"If you have a medical test or a biological marker like this, it might make it easier for parents not to deny it for a longer time. Therefore, children will get treatment faster," he said.

To note, children with autism have to wait about 80 weeks to see a specialist in the public medical sector, according to an emailed statement from the Hong Kong government.

Zee added that his research is intended as a supporting tool for professional assessment by licensed health care professionals.