title: Dasl(n)e: the challenge of developing a regional database for autism spectrum disorder.
abstract: The setting up of a database of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the north east of England is described. Best practice has been followed and included involving parents in planning and implementation at all stages, oversight by a multi-agency group, management by a multidisciplinary steering group, and independent administration of the database. From a potential listing of 986 children with ASD aged 3-12 years, the parents of 511 have so far responded (51.8%), although response rate varies considerably by local authority. Data checking has shown the information to be valid and case ascertainment broadly representative. The uses to which the data are being put and the continuing challenges are outlined.
authors.affiliation: Newcastle University, School of Clinical Medical Sciences, Sir James Spence Institute, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. h.r.mcconachie@ncl.ac.uk
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: McConachie
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Barry
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Spencer
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Parker
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Le Couteur
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Colver
mesh_terms: D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D002675:Child, Preschool; D016208:Databases, Factual / Q000191:economics; D004519:Education, Special / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004739:England / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007256:Information Systems; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008297:Male