Significant Advances Discovered in Requesting, Naming, Answering Questions and Social Interaction
A new study has explored the effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) on verbal behavior in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A total of 65 children were included in this research, of which 32 received HBOT, and 33 served as controls. The age range of participants was two to 17 years. The study utilized the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VBMAPP) and the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS) as assessment tools. Results indicate significant improvements in verbal behavior milestones, including requesting, naming, answering questions, and social interaction, among others, for children receiving 40 HBOT sessions in conjunction with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) compared to those receiving ABA alone. The authors feel their research underscores the need for ongoing research to validate HBOT as an effective intervention for improving communication skills in children with ASD. Additionally, they highlight the importance of early intervention and the potential of HBOT to enhance language acquisition and socialization in individuals with ASD, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and exploration of HBOT as a complementary treatment option.