In a groundbreaking new study, researchers have been, for the first time, able to show that a toddler of as young as 18 months, when diagnosed with Autism can be provided with "age-appropriate, effective therapy" which can successfully raised IQ levels as well as improved language and behavior skills.

Since 2007, pediatrics have been asserting that screening for Autism can successfully be undertaken for children as young as 12-18 months, but what has to be done after getting a positive diagnosis in such young babies has been unclear. The recent study's findings, thus, come as a great relief for both doctors and parents.

"Early intervention can be very effective for toddlers with autism. It's crucial, if we're going to offer screening at such a young age, that we can offer an intervention", shared co-author of the study and Chief Science Officer of Autism Speaks, Geraldine Dawson.

The study, as confirmed by the researchers, has been the first "controlled trial in children under the age of two-and-a-half". Children involved were divided into two groups, and while one group was put on "community-based interventions or therapies", the other half enrolled in a 20 hour every week "Early Start Denver Model" intervention program developed by the study's other lead authored Sally Rogers.

After two years' observation, the Model proved successful, leading the researchers to believe that early intervention does help manifolds, as compared to traditional therapies.

Details of the study have been published in the Monday edition of the journal Pediatrics.