Is Disclosing an Autism Diagnosis a Good Idea? There’s No Clear Answer
“We think strategies like preventative disclosure may improve how much peers interact with and include a child with autism, but we’re still not sure,” said U of A occupational therapy expert Sandra Thompson-Hodgetts in a recent article.
Maryland Legislation Requires Phase Out of Toxic Pesticide Tied to Autism
A bill requiring a ban on the insecticide chlorpyrifos passed both legislative houses1 in Maryland. Maryland joins other states 2 including California, New Jersey, Connecticut and Oregon with plans to forbid the substance. The state bans are welcome news for future children since chlorpyrifos has been linked to lower IQ and neurodevelopmental issues, including autism.
Positive Results from a Microbiome Treatment Trial for Autism
A new drug called AB-2004 removes harmful metabolites such as 4-EPS from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that are generated from certain kinds of gut bacteria. These metabolites can create a leaky gut allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream and then the brain, affecting brain function. This could lead to symptoms of autism.
Tools From UNC & ARI to Support Individuals with Autism During COVID-19
With more than 90% of all Americans currently under stay at home orders due to COVID-19, families are rapidly adapting to a highly unusual way of living. Almost everyone’s schedule has been disrupted. Students are now attending classes over the internet. Parents are working from home. Gym classes and social engagements take place over Zoom. Even medical appointments are occurring remotely through telehealth and telemedicine technology.
Robots Could Improve Socialization Skills for Children with Autism
A small robot, shaped like a bird, is perched on a desk in front of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While the child plays math games on a tablet, the friendly bird provides instruction and feedback–essentially coaching the child until each computer game is completed. This scenario is not a new plot line from an upcoming science fiction film.
Autism & Sleep Troubles
A recent article has highlighted the agony of sleep problems for individuals with autism. The two most common issues are insomnia and diminished time spent in the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage. The insomnia people with autism experience not only makes it difficult to fall asleep but it also makes it a challenge to stay asleep. People with autism face challenges with REM sleep as well. The general population spends about 23 percent of their sleep in the REM cycle. People with autism only spend 15 percent, making their sleep less restorative. Lower quality sleep can lead to poor social skills, more severe repetitive behaviors and lower scores on IQ tests.
