There are significantly more Somali preschoolers receiving services for autism as compared to other ethnic groups in Minneapolis schools, according to report released Tuesday. But the reason remains unclear.

The report from the Minnesota Department of Health focused on the prevalence of autism among children in Minneapolis schools.

Between 2005 and 2008, Somali children represented 0.93 to 1.54 percent of kids age 3 and 4 within autism specific classes, compared to 0.21 to 0.72 percent of non-Somalis.

Researchers were not able to answer the question of why there are disparities between the Somali population and others, but they recommend better tracking of autism cases in Minnesota and further outreach to the Somali community. To read the full report click here.

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Previous stories on this topic:

Questions Loom Over Prevalence Of Autism Among Somali Immigrants (March 17, 2009)

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