ABSTRACT
Objective:To explore the possible specific perinatal risk factors in the development of autism through comparing the perinatal risk factors between patients with autism and other psychotic disorders.Methods: In this retrospective research,197 cases with autism and 93 cases with other psychotic disorders were selected and assessed with the self-made scale of perinatal risk factors.Statistical analyses were performed using t test and Chi-square test.Results:Compared with the control group,the autistic subjects had a significantly higher frequency of the perinatal risk factors(51 % vs.68%,P=0.003),particularly the rate of catching a cold during their mothers' pregnancy(14.2% vs.6.5%,P=0.038)and the rate of prematurity(10.7% vs.3.2%,P=0.022)than the control subjects.Feeding methods was different between the two groups(P=0.038).Conclusion:Catching a cold during mothers' pregnancy,prematurity and feeding methods may be related to the development of autism.