Autism Research Funded by Major Suicide Prevention Organization
Suicidality in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Interaction Between Biological Vulnerabilities and Cognitive Dysfunction AFSP is also funding a research study on the underlying biology of stress and cognition in autism and how that may contribute to suicidality in this high risk group. The grant was awarded to Carly McMorris, Ph.D. of the University of […]
Epidurals Used During Labor Linked to Higher Autism Risk
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics has found that the rate of autism was higher in children whose mothers received epidurals during labor. Although, the study’s authors considered the risk only slightly higher.
Too Little or Too Much Folic Acid in Pregnancy Can Cause Harm to Developing Brains
A new study from the MIND Institute at UC Davis found that high amounts of folic acid given to pregnant mice caused brain damage in their offspring. These findings were published last month in the journal Cerebral Cortex. Folic Acid is neuroprotective and is widely recommended for women of childbearing age. The UC Davis study involved exposing pregnant mice to differing levels of folic acid (the synthetic form of vitamin B9 or folate).
Meta-Analysis Shows Significant Relationship Between Mercury and Autism
A recent meta-analysis published in Pediatric Health, Medicine and Therapeutics investigated the possible role that concentrations of copper, lead and mercury may play in the development of autism. The study analyzed 18 articles in which concentration samples of blood, hair and nails of 1797 patients aged 2 to 16 years were examined. In the end, no significant relationship was discovered between copper and lead concentrations and the development of autism. However, there was a significant relationship between mercury concentration and autism.
Nonprofit Organization Invests $4M into Early Identification Initiative During COVID
To ensure that children with suspected developmental disabilities don’t fall through the cracks during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Association of University Centers on Disabilities has invested over $4M in their Act Early Network to help identify cases of autism. The Act Early Network has organized specific Act Early COVID-19 Response Teams throughout the country. The goal of these teams is to not only diagnose at-risk children but to strengthen their resilience skills, improve their behaviors, and provide resources to their families.
Cow’s Milk Allergy May Be Overdiagnosed and Undermining Breastfeeding
Dairy allergies have long been associated with autism. Now, a new study published in JAMA Pediatrics shows that cow’s milk allergy (CMA) may be overdiagnosed in many infants. Using a food challenge protocol, this novel study found that only 1% of infants were actually affected by CMA even though 15% to 20% of new parents report symptoms associated with the condition such as crying, vomiting, and rashes.
