No, it is not possible to detect autism at 1 year old. While early detection of autism is important in order to provide early intervention and support, it is not possible to accurately diagnose autism at such a young age. Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder which can present differently in each individual. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that it is not possible to definitively diagnose autism in a child under the age of two, due to the fact that symptoms vary widely and can be hard to distinguish from typical development.
Most clinicians rely on developmental milestone checklists, such as those provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to look for signs of autism in children under the age of two. However, these checklists are not intended to diagnose autism, but rather to identify behaviors that may be indicative of the condition. If a child displays behaviors that could indicate autism, further evaluation and assessment is recommended.
At 1 year old, a child may not yet have developed the language and social skills that can be indicative of autism, and other developmental delays may not be apparent. Therefore, it is difficult to accurately diagnose autism at this age. In addition, some children may not show signs of autism until they are much older, making detection even more difficult.
In order to accurately diagnose autism, it is important to look for a range of behavioral and developmental indicators. This requires a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a qualified professional, such as a developmental pediatrician or psychologist. If there is a concern about autism, it is important to get an evaluation as soon as possible, so that the child can receive the appropriate support and intervention.