Disability Programs in Danger of Closing Due to COVID-19
Data collected in July by the American Network of Community Options and Resources, or ANCOR, showed that 77% of organizations serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have reported shutting down and discontinuing programs due to COVID-19. Unfortunately, 16% of those programs are never expected to reopen again.
Measuring Metabolites in Blood Could Be Used to Diagnose Autism
Scientists are one step closer to developing a serological test that could be used to diagnose autism. Researchers at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York designed a blood test that analyzes measurements of metabolites in a blood sample to predict whether or not an individual has autism. Their model proved fairly accurate. The blood test successfully identified 124 of 131 children with autism in their study.
Special Needs Caregivers Describe More Negative Effects From Pandemic Versus Non-Caregivers
A new report issued from the National Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Family Support at the University of Pittsburgh found that caregivers of individuals with special needs are more likely to experience health and financial difficulties since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh conducted a survey of caregivers from April 15 to May 27 and found that sixty-three percent faced an increase in responsibilities since stay at home orders began.
Participate in Autism Research: ASD COVID-19 Study
The Johnson Center for Child Health and Development is conducting an online, questionnaire based study to address the psychosocial and behavioral impact of COVID-19 on children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study includes questions about the level of supports and services your child received at the beginning of 2020 and compares with the time since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Neurodevelopmental Regression and Early Life Metal Exposure
Children who lose previously acquired developmental skills or milestones can be classified as experiencing a neurodevelopmental regression (NDR). About one-third of children who hold an autism diagnosis fit the NDR subtype model. A team of scientists from the University of Arizona recently studied the origins of NDR.
Immune System Dysfunction in Pregnancy Tied to Behavioral and Emotional Issues in Children with Autism
Children on the spectrum whose mothers experienced immune system irregularities during pregnancy have a greater risk of behavioral and emotional problems according to a study from UC Davis’ MIND Institute. This new research reviewed maternal immune history and used it as a predictor of autism symptoms in children. Immune system conditions recognized in this study included asthma, hypothyroidism, Raynaud’s disease, alopecia, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
