November 07, 2023
- An original investigation has studied the association between prenatal lead (Pb) exposure and cognitive development in children. The results showed that even low levels of prenatal Pb exposure were significantly associated with an increased risk of cognitive developmental delay (CDD) in children. The incidence of CDD increased with both prenatal Pb exposure and genetic risk, with the most significant risk observed among children with high prenatal Pb exposure and high genetic risk. The study also revealed that the neurocognitive toxicity of prenatal Pb exposure may be more critical than childhood exposure. The findings suggest that genetic background may play a role in altering the developing brain’s response to Pb and may be important for better understanding the molecular basis of neurobehavioral developmental delays due to childhood Pb poisoning.
- A new nationwide study from the National Observatory for Autism at the National Institute of Health, Italy, has estimated a 1 in 77 prevalence rate of autism in 7-9-year-old children within the country, with a male-to-female ratio of 4.4:1. The study was conducted in schools across the northern, central, and southern regions of Italy from February 2016 to February 2018. The authors say their findings will guide national policies in enhancing services tailored to the specific needs of children with autism.
- PaxMedica, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has announced that its manuscript titled “Randomized clinical trial of low dose suramin intravenous infusions for treatment of autism spectrum disorder” has been accepted for publication by the Annals of General Psychiatry. The manuscript, authored by PaxMedica’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. David Hough, along with nine co-authors, highlights the potential of monthly suramin intravenous infusions as a safe and potentially efficacious treatment for the core symptoms of autism. The company feels that accepting this manuscript represents a significant milestone in its continued dedication to pioneering innovative treatments for ASD.
- Check out TACA’s monthly learning series for November. This month’s topic is “Therapies.” The organization will cover a wide range of autism therapy options that aim to develop new skills with a spotlight on communication skills, improving social interactions, managing sensory issues and cultivating independence.
