U. S. researchers have found that gastrointestinal symptoms occur in almost 50 percent of children with autism spectrum disorders.

Conducted by Autism Speaks' Autism Treatment Network, the study also found GI symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhea increased as children get older.

Data from 1,185 children was examined by Dr. Daniel Coury, medical director of the ATN and of Ohio State University, and colleagues who found 45 percent had GI symptoms at the time of enrollment. Coury also said that previous research resulted in conflicting results.

Thirty-nine percent of children under the age of 5 reported symptoms, while 51 percent of children age 7 and older reported GI symptoms.

Coury said in a statement, "These findings suggest that better evaluation of GI symptoms and subsequent treatment may have benefits for these patients. Primary care physicians and specialists should ask families about these symptoms and address these as part of the overall management plan for the child or adolescent with autism spectrum disorders." (With Inputs from Agencies)