Newborn Blood Sample, US Government (IMAGE) University of California - San Diego Caption At birth, blood samples are taken from newborns and used to screen for genetic diseases. A new research study will help determine whether these drops can also help predict autism risk. Credit US Government Usage Restrictions Photo credit as indicated License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.