Chinese University's faculty of medicine on Wednesday launched what it described as pioneering technology designed to assess the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children.

Developed in collaboration with the CUHK spin-off MicroSigX Biotech Diagnostic, the world’s first “AI-Powered Multikingdom Microbial Biomarkers Technology” aims to enable earlier intervention and support for at-risk families.

According to researchers, more than 22,000 children in Hong Kong have been diagnosed with ASD.

Waits to see a specialist for children displaying suspected autism symptoms can stretch for years, leaving many families in a state of uncertainty and anxiety.

Siew Ng, associate dean of research at CU Medicine and Croucher Professor of Medical Sciences, said that there has been no simple diagnostic tool for ASD until now.

She said the new technology offers a non-invasive method using a stool test, with results available within two to three weeks.

“By looking into the stools of children with autism, we are able to identify certain very special and unique features in the microbiome,” Ng said.

“We can now use artificial intelligence to transform this into a technology and the tests that parents can basically just use at home.”

A pilot initiative will begin in January 2026, providing free testing to 200 eligible preschool children between 18 months and four years old who show suspected ASD symptoms but have not yet received a formal diagnosis.

The team plans to make the test available to the general public by the third quarter of next year.

In addition, CU Medicine will establish an “Advancement Centre for Autism” to develop training programmes for community healthcare professionals.

The centre aims to promote practical knowledge on autism assessment and to integrate medical, social, family and educational support.