January 06, 2025
- A new study investigating Thyborøn-Harboøre, an environmentally contaminated fishing community in Denmark, examined the long-term health impacts of pollution by analyzing two cohorts using historical population data and health records. The newer cohort (1990–2006) showed elevated hospital contacts for autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in boys, as well as increased all-cause mortality (adjusted rate ratio, aRR 1.26) and cancer mortality (aRR 1.47). The older cohort (1968–1970) revealed heightened rates of all-cause mortality (aRR 1.06), cancer mortality (aRR 1.17), and kidney cancer (aRR 1.82), along with elevated rates of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety in men (aRR 4.07). These findings underscore significant health risks, including neurodevelopmental and psychiatric outcomes, linked to prolonged environmental contamination, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a new clinical report guiding clinicians on pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS), a complex condition characterized by sudden, severe neuropsychiatric and behavioral symptoms, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and restricted food intake. The report underscores the importance of a cautious, multidisciplinary, and family-centered approach to diagnosis and treatment, as PANS lacks specific biomarkers and has an unclear evidence base. Recommended care includes psychiatric and behavioral interventions, targeted antibiotic use for confirmed infections, and limited use of immunomodulatory therapies. The AAP calls for robust research to address knowledge gaps, improve care, and provide equitable access to evidence-based treatments while emphasizing transparent communication with families about the condition’s uncertainties.
- A recent case study highlights the link between severe autism-related eating disorders and vitamin C deficiency, emphasizing the need for early detection in children with restrictive diets. A young boy with autism was referred to a pediatric emergency department after weeks of limping and refusing to walk. While initial neurological and joint examinations were normal, his parents reported severe oral issues and a diet limited to white foods like eggs, rice, and milk. Tests revealed undetectable vitamin C levels and microcytic anemia, with X-rays and MRIs showing bone abnormalities typical of scurvy—a condition nearly eradicated in developed countries. After oral vitamin C supplementation, the boy’s symptoms resolved entirely within a month, and his blood vitamin C levels returned to normal. This case underscores the importance of monitoring nutritional deficiencies in children with autism, particularly when unexplained symptoms like limping arise.
- Join Richard Frye, MD, for an insightful talk on the groundbreaking connection between the gut microbiome and mitochondria, the energy powerhouse of our cells. Scheduled for January 22 at 8 PM Eastern / 5 PM Pacific, this session will explore findings from a clinical trial on Microbiota Transplant Therapy for adults with autism, co-led by Dr. Frye. With extensive experience in neurodevelopmental and neurometabolic disorders, Dr. Frye serves in multiple leadership roles, including President of the Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a distinguished researcher! Register now through the provided Zoom link, and all registrants will receive a session recording.
