September 30, 2024
- A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that children born during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, including those exposed to the virus in utero, were no more likely to screen positive for autism than children born before the pandemic. Researchers from Columbia University used a neurodevelopmental screening questionnaire on nearly 2,000 children aged 16-30 months, finding no significant differences in autism risk between pre-pandemic and pandemic-born groups. Interestingly, children exposed to COVID in utero were less likely to screen positive for autism, a result the researchers attribute to potential parental biases in assessing their child’s behavior. While the findings are reassuring for parents, the study emphasizes the need for continued monitoring of these children for other potential developmental challenges.
- A team of Brazilian researchers, along with Dr. Richard Frye, has reviewed the association between early feeding difficulties and ASD, highlighting that signs such as shortened breastfeeding, trouble introducing solid foods, and atypical mealtime behaviors are common in children with ASD. Their research indicates that feeding-related challenges, often manifesting in the first year of life, may serve as early warning signs for ASD. However, they are not yet part of the official diagnostic criteria. Recognizing these signs could help parents and medical professionals identify developmental concerns earlier. The team suggests that more research is needed, particularly prospective studies and the development of specific diagnostic tools, to further explore feeding behaviors’ role in ASD diagnosis.
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study explored the effects of Bacteroides fragilis BF839 on children with ASD. Sixty children aged 2 to 10 were given BF839 or a placebo for 16 weeks. The BF839 group showed significant improvements in behavior, particularly in body and object use, especially for children under 4 and those with more severe ASD (CARS score ≥30) compared to the control group. BF839 also improved gastrointestinal symptoms and increased beneficial gut bacteria. Only two patients experienced mild side effects. The study concludes that BF839 can safely and effectively reduce abnormal behaviors and digestive issues in children with ASD.
- Recent research from the Temple Grandin Equine Center has found that the OT-ZOR Equine intervention, which integrates horses into occupational therapy for children and teens with autism, is feasible and well-received by both participants and therapists. All 14 participants in the study completed the program, attending 95% of sessions with no serious safety issues. Occupational therapists adhered to the protocol with 91% fidelity, and both caregivers and therapists expressed high satisfaction with the intervention. The study showed that while self-regulation improved after both traditional and equine therapy, social functioning only improved after including horses. These results suggest that equine-assisted therapy may provide added social benefits and lay the groundwork for future research to explore its full impact.
