Research Articles

April 02, 2020

As Coronavirus Curtails School and Therapy, Parents Can Turn to Exercise Instead

Researchers in China reviewed the science literature from the U.S. and other countries to compile a meta-analysis of the effects of exercise on children and adolescents with diagnosed autism. “The results of the meta-analysis show that physical activity had a significant positive impact on social interaction ability, communication ability, motor skills, and autism degree of autistic children as well as the social skills and communication skills of autistic adolescents,” state the authors. “On the other hand, physical activity had no significant effect on the stereotyped behavior of autistic children and adolescents.”

autism prevalence chart 2020
March 26, 2020

Autism Prevalence Still Rising per CDC

New Official Rate is 1 in 54, up 10% Since Last Report Progress Lacking in Early Diagnosis, Racial & Ethnic Disparities Found The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released its latest prevalence estimates for autism. It reports 1 in 54 children have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The rate is an increase of […]

March 23, 2020

Socioeconomic & Racial Divide in Autism Numbers

A startling new study out of the University of Colorado Boulder exposed an unexpected trend. Autism rates are escalating for African American and Hispanic families as well as economically disadvantaged families, while the rates for wealthy Caucasian families have declined.

woman with young boy
March 19, 2020

Dealing with the Coronavirus Emergency For Autism Families

The media has done an excellent job promoting the CDC’s steps to protecting one’s self and others from COVID-19. However, teaching social distancing, proper hand washing techniques, and avoiding touching your face will be quite challenging for many of those on the spectrum. Someone with ASD may have sensory issues or lack understanding of personal space. Following multi-step directions may be difficult or not remembered without prompting. Getting used to staying at home or sheltering in place will disturb daily routines. Persistence, patience and perseverance will be the orders of the day to get through this trying time.

March 09, 2020

Exposure to Phthalates During Pregnancy Associated with Autism Traits

A UMASS Amherst study shows that boys exposed in the womb to phthalates were more likely to exhibit autism traits at ages three and four. The study used the term “autistic traits” instead of “autism” due to the young age of the children used in the research. The authors felt there may be a chance some children may exhibit a few symptoms of autism but not be diagnosed with the full disorder later.

newborn baby with mother
February 28, 2020

Duquesne University Research Team Sets Lofty Goal of Stopping Autism Pathology as it Develops

Duquesne University has announced a biomarker test developed to identify children in the process of developing autism, possibly stopping the progression before their brain pathology worsens. In the future, this test may even help identify newborns at risk of developing the disorder.

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