Autism spectrum disorder in schoolchildren: analysis of associated factors based on secondary data from the child health handbook

Abstract

Objective: To understand the occurrence and possible associations between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and variables recorded in the Child Health Booklet. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional, descriptive, and exploratory study conducted on 27 children diagnosed with ASD. Data were collected between March and April 2026 through home visits, using information from the Child Health Booklet and a structured questionnaire. Results: Predominance of males 59.3%, mixed-race children 63.0%, and families with income up to one minimum wage 48.1%. Cesarean delivery predominated 88.9%, prematurity 18.5%, and medication use during pregnancy 51.9%. The manifestations present were language complaints 81.5%, selective eating 74.1%, and sleep disorders 63.0%. Speech delay was the most frequently altered developmental milestone 42.9%; 40.0% of children presented with overweight, risk of overweight, or obesity. Conclusion: The results showed a high frequency of language disorders, selective eating, sleep disturbances, and gestational and perinatal factors in children with signs and a diagnosis of ASD, reinforcing the potential of the Child Health Booklet in the early identification of developmental disorders in children.