A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics investigated whether screen time in early childhood increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) later in life. While initial analyses suggested a positive association between early screen time and ASD, the researchers found this link disappeared after accounting for socioeconomic factors. ASD is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes information. It is called a “spectrum” because it encompasses a wide range of abilities and challenges, varying greatly from person to person. Some individuals with autism may have difficulty with speech and understanding social cues, while others may excel in specific skills like memory or pattern recognition. Autism is typically diagnosed in early childhood, and while its exact causes are not fully understood, a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute. The researchers conducted the study to explore whether behaviors like early screen time exposure could influence the development of ASD. Early childhood is a critical period for cognitive and social development, making it important to understand how …