Comparison of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F) Positive Predictive Value by Race

Abstract

The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F) is the most widely used screener for ASD. Despite the comparable rate of ASD in Black and White children, the M-CHAT-R/F was validated on a primarily White, Non-Hispanic sample. Few studies have assessed whether the screener performs adequately with racial minorities. This study compared the M-CHAT-R/F Positive Predictive Value (PPV), for ASD, and for any developmental condition, in Black and White children. We also examined M-CHAT-R/F item-level PPV by race. The PPVs for ASD and other developmental disorders were similar in both racial groups for total score and individual items. Therefore, our findings support the use of the M-CHAT-R/F with Black and White children.