February 05, 2024
- A new scientific review suggests a strong association between acetaminophen (e.g., paracetamol or Tylenol) exposure during early development and the induction of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study concludes that acetaminophen exposure, particularly during the very early postpartum period, poses a significant risk for developing ASD. The authors indicate that the widespread use of acetaminophen during early development could potentially account for the majority, up to 90% or more, of all ASD cases. Despite accumulating evidence of acetaminophen’s neurodevelopmental harm and its frequent administration to children, often exceeding approved amounts and without demonstrated long-term benefits, this review questions the rationale for its continued use in the pediatric population.
- The Profound Autism Alliance and the Nashoba Learning Group are sponsoring the Profound Autism Summit, which takes place on April 5, 2024, in Burlington, MA. This one-day conference will bring together leaders from research, medicine, treatment, advocacy, education, and human services to discuss the needs of those with profound autism across disciplines and throughout the lifespan.
- An article featured in Psychology Today has examined the complex phenomenon of camouflaging among individuals with ASD, focusing mainly on the experiences of a teenage boy with ASD. Camouflaging is an adaptive strategy to fit into social environments that involves suppressing autistic traits to avoid stigma and bullying. The author discusses how camouflaging affects self-consciousness, social anxiety, and well-being. The article underscores the importance of recognizing camouflaging across genders and its implications for mental health and diagnostic processes within the autism community. It also emphasizes the need for broader awareness and support tailored to diverse experiences within the ASD population.
- The National Council On Severe Autism (NCSA) 2024 Webinar Series starts this Thursday, February 8, 2024, from 7:00 to 8:15 p.m. EST. All NCSA webinars are free, include live Q&A, and are recorded. Pre-registration is required for each webinar. This Thursday’s webinar will discuss the reauthorization of the Autism CARES Act. The following Thursday’s webinar will be presented by Dr. Walter Zahorodny and is titled “Autism’s Rising Rates: A Deep Dive into the Data.”
