Autism News

This page has news articles from around the world, relating to Autism. The opinions expressed by the authors of these news items are not necessarily in agreement with our own. However they are reproduced here to give the reader a feel for the research and views of scientists and people from around the world.

September 2006

Autism News Item: Study Discovers Statistically Significant Link Between Abnormally Low Cholesterol Levels and Autism Spectrum Disorders

Source: Doctors Guide, personal edition, 7 Sept 2006

Author:

A small ‘subgroup’ of children with autism has been found to have abnormally low levels of cholesterol, which may indicate that cholesterol may play a role in the disorder.     …read more.

Autism News Item: New National Institute of Mental Health research program launches autism trials

Source: Eureka Alert, 7 Sept 2006

Author: Karin Lee

NIMH is embarking on 3 major clinical studies on Autism. The studies will seek to identify differences between ‘subtypes’ of the disorder as well as look at effective treatments.       …read more.

Autism News Item: The Age of Autism: About those 'old dads'

Source: United Press International, 6 Sept 2006

Author: Dan Olmsted

In this article Dan Olmsted takes a critical look at a recent study that identified a relationship between children with autism and the age of their fathers. It is not to deny the information gained in the study, but it is beneficial to question the conclusions of research.          …read more.

Autism News Item: The Big Question: How much do we really know about the causes and incidence of autism?

Source: news.independent.co.uk, 06 September 2006

Author: Jeremy Laurance

Research published this week from Israel suggested men over 40 were six times more likely to father a child with autism compared with men under 30. The question whether the cause of the disorder is contributed by genetics or environmental factors is debated.  Many believe early intervention with changes to diet and behavioural therapy has helped.       …read more.

Autism News Item: Treatment with 'friendly' bacteria could counter autism in children

Source: The Scotsman, 5 Sept 2006

Author: Ian Johnston, Science Correspondent

A recent study has found that probiotics that were given to children with Autism improved their behaviour and concentration dramatically. The trial was ended prematurely because parents did not want to continue receiving a placebo. A rigorous evaluation of the treatment is still needed to prove its effectiveness.             …read more.

Autism News Item: 6 Facts You Need to Know About Autism

Source: Parents.com, Sept 2006

Author: Jan Sheehan

This article highlights 6 things about autism that people may or may not know. Included are the increasing numbers diagnosed, diagnosis is happening sooner, that it is a genetic disorder, the link with vaccinations has not been proven, the importance of early treatment, and the suggestion about head size being important.              …read more.

August 2006

Autism News Item: Autism - The Mystery

Source: www.bestsyndication.com, August 30, 2006.

Author: Lisa Hyde-Barrett

 Dispelling any mystery registered Nurse Lisa Hyde-Barrett states that Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by abnormal social interaction, communication ability, interest patterns, and behavior patterns. She advocates that any treatment of to the disorder must involve neurological evaluation and review of diet.            ..…read more.

Autism News Item: Inflammation in brain tissue a possible clue to autism

Source: News-Medical.net, 24 August 2006

Author: Medical Research news

A study done at the University of Washington School of Medicine has shown that abnormalities seen in children’s brains may not be due to accelerated growth, as previously believed. This study suggests that the differences may be caused by inflammation.        …read more.

Autism News Item: The Age of Autism: Something Wicked - 2

Source: United Press International, 24 August 2006

Author: Dan Olmsted

This is a continuation of the discussion from ‘Something Wicked – 1’. Dan continues the discussion about chemical connections in autism.     …read more.

Autism News Item: Link between Autism and abnormal blood vessel function and oxidative stress

Source: EurekAlert, 18 August 2006

Author:

Researchers in Pennsylvania have discovered differences in the function of blood vessels and levels of oxidative stress between children with autism and those without. These differences suggest that children with autism may have constricted blood vessels and a higher tendency to form clots.        …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism worse than thought

Source: The Daily Telegraph, 17 August 2006

Author:

Previously it was believed that autism only effected some parts of the brain. It has now been shown to affect many more areas of the brain including sensory perception, movement and memory.            …read more.

Autism News Item: The Age of Autism: Something Wicked - 1

Source: United Press International, 16 August 2006

Author: Dan Olmsted

Another instalment of Dan’s discussion surrounding the cause of autism. This article follows more funding from the US into research on the origins of the disease, and he discusses some of the debates between a gene that causes autism and the impacts of environmental interaction.            …read more.

Autism News Item: Broader look at autism

Source: Newsday.com, 16 August 2006

Author: Jamie Talan

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh stated that autism is a disorder that affects many aspects of behaviour and thinking – beyond characteristic problems with language and socialisation.   …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism and diet – what are the effects?

Source: Best Syndication, 12 August 2006

Author:

Some parents have noticed a strong connection between nutrition or diet and their child’s disorder - an observation that is being backed up by research. Some children have difficulty processing proteins in certain foods, and these problems lead to worse symptoms.      …read more.

Autism News Item: Scientists closer to identifying a gene for autism

Source: VOA News, 10 August 2006

Author: Rosanne Skirble

Researchers in Washington feel they are closer than ever to identifying a gene for autism. There have been some interesting discoveries along the way, such as the idea that different genes cause autism in boys than girls.    …read more.

Autism News Item: New Findings on Autism Research

Source: MedIndia.com, 3 August 2006

Author:

A study published in the Journal of Molecular Genetics has shown that there are some differences in the genes that may cause autism in boys and girls, as well as the genes involved in the early- and late-onset forms of the disorder.           …read more.

July 2006

Autism News Item: Scientists work to break apart cases of autism

Source: The Missourian, 30 July 2006

Author: Holly Villines

Researchers at MU’s Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders are embarking on a new study that will stratify participants by the subtle differences between cases. ASD does not always present the same in each individual, and researchers hope to find some of the reasons why.           …read more.

Autism News Item: Study Debunks birth season-autism risk link

Source: Reuters, 29 July 2006

Author: Anne Harding

This is the largest study to date that looked at birth month and its relation to autism. The information will be helpful in identifying what kind of exposures have interacted with genetics to lead to the disorder, it is not suggesting that the exposures cause the disorder.          …read more.

Autism News Item: Rapid Brain Growth Seen Linked to Autism

Source: PakTribune, 21 July 2006

Author:

A new study is showing that infants whose brains grow quickly are at a higher risk for autism. Researchers theorise that this is because the rapid growth leads to missed connections during development.     …read more.

Autism News Item: HealthWrap: Autism and Alzheimer's

Source: United Press International, 20 July 2006

Author: Kate Walker

A recent study, which compared the brains of men and boys with autism to those without, has found that there are around 1 million fewer neurons in the amygdala region of the brain. This is the region that deals with emotions (specifically fear) and memory.  This is one step further in understanding how autism works.            …read more.

Autism News Item: New technology helping to break barrier of communication in autistic children

Source: WNDU.com, 18 July 2006

Author:

This article highlights how new technologies are helping non-verbal children communicate. There are a variety of devices from picture exchange boards to hand held computers that are very successful in helping these children communicate.           …read more.

Autism News Item: Inside the autistic brain

Source: PalmBeachPost.com, 13 July 2006

Author: Stacey Singer

Some new studies have shown that different parts of the brain are not communicating properly in those with autism. One study showed that the areas involved in the study task were ‘out of synch’ in the experimental group. In the other study showed that visual centers in the brain are lighting up for language tasks in those with autism.    …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism: New iSTART model of brain sheds light on triggers

Source: Medical News Today, 13 July 2006

Author:

Dr. Stephen Grossberg and Dr. Don Seidman have developed a new model of the brain, called iSTART, that describes the mechanisms underlying autism.      …read more.

Autism News Item: New book offers social skills solutions for children with autism spectrum disorders

Source: Indiana University, 13 July 2006

Author:

A new book has been published that highlights the need for social skills training for kids with ASD. The book points out that children with autism not only want to have friendships and closeness with others, they are quite capable of achieving these goals if they are taught how. …read more.

Autism News Item: 13 month delay between evaluation and autism diagnosis in children

Source: eMaxHealth.com, 6 July 2006

Author: CDC

A study published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioural Paediatrics shows that there are significant delays in diagnosing children with autism. The children in the study were, on average, diagnosed 13 months after initially being evaluated for developmental concerns.   …read more.

Autism News Item: Innovative & Unique new program aims to demystify autism in young children

Source: Halifax Live, 5 July 2006

Author: Written by staff

The mother of a child with autism has developed a puppet program that aims to educate children about autism and teach the kids how to become friends with children with autism. The program is run in the classroom and presents many of the misconceptions and challenges resulting from ASD.         …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism diagnosis rises as research about disorder grows

Source: The Olympian, 5 July 2006

Author: Heather Woodward

This article discusses how the diagnosis of autism has increased, and along with that so has the amount of research and effective treatments.  …read more.

June 2006

Autism News Item: Mercury in vaccines not cause of Autism, study finds

Source: Canada.com, 20 June 2006

Author:

A study done in Quebec suggests that mercury in vaccines is not causing autism. The researchers compare the rates of autism before and after changing the vaccine formula to remove thimerosol.       …read more.

Autism News Item: A look at autism and the services provided for autistic children

Source: Kinston Free Press, 18 June 2006

Author: Robin Clayton

This article outlines some of the steps that families take after their child is diagnosed with Autism. It is a review of some of the services that are available or what some of the choices are for parents.       …read more.

Autism News Item: Training care-givers crucial

Source: MassLive.com, 7 June 2006

Author:

Children with autism require specialised treatment from parents, teachers and therapists. For such interventions to be successful they need to be administered properly and frequently. Thus, it is important for those administering them to be properly trained.             …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism Can Be Detected at 14 Months, Research Shows

Source: FOXNews.com, 5 June 2006

Author: By Daniel J. DeNoon, reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Autism is often not diagnosed until 3 years of age. A new study from Baltimore shows that it can be diagnosed as early as 14 months. Earlier diagnosis provides opportunity for early intervention and a better outcome for children.          …read more.

Autism News Item: Understanding Asperger's: Invisible disability

Source: fredericksburg.com, 4 June 2006

Author: Donya Arias

This article discusses some of the challenges faced by those with Aspergers disorder, including diagnosis, development and independence as an adult. Donya uses Cory’s case as an example.         …read more.

Autism News Item: New Study Shows Autism-Related

Developmental 'Red Flags' Identifiable at Age Two in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Source: Yahoo News, June 1 2006

Author: PRNewswire

Early intervention is known to have a large impact on the development of children with autism. Unfortunately diagnosis is often delayed until children are 3 or 4 (and in some cases later), which delays intervention. A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry has identified developmental differences in children who are 2 years old.           …read more.

May 2006

Autism News Item: Siblings Coping With Autism

Source: abc news, May 31 2006

Author: John Donvan

This article makes some points about how siblings are often overlooked in dealing with children with autism.            …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism and Adults: Finding Independence

Source: abc news, May 30 2006

Author: John Donvan

Although there has been a lot of attention focussed on the increase in children being diagnosed with autism and the various interventions and coping strategies for this group, there has been a lack of attention for adults with the disorder. Adults with ASD still need support and information that suits who they are as adults and helps them to contribute to society. …read more.

Autism News Item: Link between autism and MMR vaccine again

Source: www.news-medical.net, May 29 2006

Author:

A new study has found the measles virus in the stomachs of children with a form of autism. This research has once again touched on the link between autism and the MMR vaccine.            …read more.

Autism News Item: Mind's 'Daydream' Centers May Hold Clues to Autism

Source: Forbes.com (healthday news), May 11, 2006

Author:

The part of the brain that is involved with daydreaming also supports processing familiar faces and emotions and thinking about other people. A recent study shows that people with autism don’t daydream, or at least not in the same way as the general population. This evidence might provide some insight into what is happening in development.            …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism Diagnoses Buried on Pediatricians' Back Burners

Source: MedPage today, May 11, 2006

Author: By By Neil Osterweil, MedPage Today Staff Writer

Reviewed by Zalman S. Agus, MD; Emeritus Professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.

This article discusses the delays that often occur in diagnosing autism. Many families wait a year between suspecting Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and diagnosis. Some of the reasons for delays mentioned by GPs are unfamiliarity with screening tools, lack of time and referring on to a specialist. …read more.

April 2006

Autism News Item: Early diagnosis may help with autism

Source: BDN Connection, 13 April 2006

Author: Hillary Wundrow

The younger a child is the more impact you can have on their development. Their pre-school years are very important in their development. This article uses an example to illustrate how early diagnosis and thus early intervention has helped.    …read more.

Autism News Item: Parents, Politicians seek awareness, understanding of autism

Source: Burlington Free Press, 11 April 2006

Author: Erica Jacobson

With April being Autism Awareness month parents and politicians are trying to get the communities to gain some understanding of what autism is and how it affecting people.       …read more.

Autism News Item: Help for Siblings of Children with Special Needs

Source: Lifespan, 10 April 2006

Author:

Brothers and sisters of children who have serious illnesses or developmental disabilities are more likely to have adjustment issues. This article discusses the need for group or family interaction to help improve the knowledge and self-confidence of these siblings when they are at a young age.    …read more.

Autism News Item: Weak brain links 'explain autism'

Source: BBC News, 9 April, 2006

Author:

A recent study suggests that the poor social skills associated with autism are related to lower activity in the brain, making social interactions less meaningful.       …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism 'Epidemic' in Schools Called Illusory

Source: MedPage Today, April 04, 2006

Author: By Neil Osterweil, MedPage Today Staff Writer
Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MD; Assistant Professor of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco

This article reviews the arguments that the increase in the diagnosis of autism is related to changing definitions. The number of cases of autism is increasing, but at the same time the number of children diagnosed with a learning disability has gone down. This trend suggests that changing definitions may have a role in the numbers.        …read more.

Autism News Item: New Study In Journal Pediatrics Misleading

Says Autism Community, Declares Autism Epidemic Real -

Department of Education Data Inadequate to Determine

Prevalence Over Time

Source: from a Safeminds announcement, April, 2006

Author:

This article is a response to a study in the journal called Pediatrics that is publishing a study that says the increase in autism cases is due to reclassification or redefining of the diagnostic criteria. Advocacy groups and other experts in the field question how the conclusions were made in the study. The Autism community says that the increase in autism is real and not just due to changes in definitions.    …read more.

Autism News Item: Siblings of Disabled Have Their Own Troubles

Source: New York Times – nytimes.com, 4 April 2006

Author: Gretchen Cook

Many children with disabilities have siblings who have their own set of problems. In addition to going through many of the same frustrations as their parents they have a whole set of other problems and emotions that are unique to their circumstance.            …read more.

Autism News Item: WSJ Looks at Chelation

          Source: The Wall Street Journal. Monday, April 03, 2006

          Author: Amy Dockser Marcus

In this article Amy investigates what Chelation therapy is, how it is used and the theory behind its application to autism treatment. It is a controversial therapy for autism and its impacts are unclear.    ...read more.

March 2006

Autism News Item: UCLA Uncovers Autism Defect: Autism Study Breaks New Ground

Source: Dailynews.com

Author: Dana Bartholomew for the LA Daily News.

A study done at UCLA has shown, using MRI studies, that children with autism have differences in the functioning of one of the neuronal systems in their brains. This system is involved with imitation and observed emotions, which may help to understand the social deficits seen in these children.       …read more.

Autism News Item: Video game therapy - a new frontier

Source: Oberlin Times, Staff and Agencies, Mar 17 2006

Author: Lisa Baertlein.

Lisa discusses neuro-biofeedback therapy games that have been used to treat brain injuries, ADHD and other learning difficulties. The therapy has been successful with many consumers and provides an alternate therapy to medication in many instances.     …read more.

Autism News Item: Giving Autism A Name And Face

Source: SCTonline.net, Mar 24 2006

Author: Tami K. Phillips, Times Staff Writer

This is an article that tells the story of one family dealing with autism and their journey. It is intended to ‘give a face’ to the disorder and raise awareness. The family is part of an advocacy group and hope to raise awareness and openness about the issue.   …read more.

Autism News Item: One Family Uses Sports Lessons to Handle Autism

Source: WYMT Mountain News, Mar 23 2006

Author: WYMT Mountain News

A brief article of how a family has used the teamwork ideas behind a successful sports team to work together for the benefit of their 4 year old son.       …read more.

Autism News Item: Innovative Approach Affords Binghamton University Researchers Clearer View Of Autism

Source: Medical News Today, Mar 22 2006

Author: Gail Glover

New research at Binghamton University is being done so that we can better understand how children (both with and without autism) are interacting with and engaging the world around them. They will be using state of the art technologies to measure a variety of things. Getting a better or clearer understanding of these interactions will help understand how to cope with the deficits in children with autism (such as social skills and life skills).           …read more.

Autism News Item: The role of evolutionary genomics in the development of autism

Source: Simon Fraser University, Canada. Mar 21 2006.

Author: Bernard Crespi

This is a brief outline of what the studies aims were and a bit of the theory about ‘imprinted brain theory’ as well as a discussion of why it will be important information.      …read more.

Autism News Item: The Age of Autism: Allergic responses

Source: Monsters and Critics.com, Consumer Health. Mar 21 2006

Author: Dan Olmsted, United Press International.

The theory that we are being underexposed to the natural environment leads to increased rates of allergies and asthma has lead to new avenues of research, and thus, new discoveries. There have been comparisons between children who have had different vaccines (including the MMR) or different antibiotic exposures and groups who have not had the same exposure and there are differences.        …read more.

Autism News Item: Clinic Reports Dramatic Results Treating Autism, ADD Without Drugs

Source: US NewsWire, MediaLink Worldwide, Mar 21 2006

Author: A. Harris of Busystreet Media

Biofeedback methods are now being adapted for use with kids with autism, and often are very successful. The treatment doesn’t work for all kids who try it, but it is an alternative to the more traditional methods or medication and when it is successful the impacts are lasting.        …read more.

Autism News Item: Research: Vaccine Ingredient Can Disrupt Immune System

Source: Sci-Tech Today – Technology, Discovery & Innovation, Health, Mar 21 2006

Author: The Sacramento Bee and SciTech Today

A study done by scientists at UC Davis has shown that, in mice, use of a preservative in vaccinations has affected the immune system. This is not to say that there is a direct link between Thimerosal and causes of autism, but it provides more information about the issue.             …read more.

Autism News Item: Trust me, I'm a Junior Doctor: Under-Informed Patients Should Stop Trying To Heal Themselves

Source: Autism Today. Everything you need to know about Autism. Mar 20 2006.

Author: Max Pemberton for the Telegraph, UK.

As debate continues about the MMR vaccine and its relationship with autism parents need to remember that it is difficult to understand what all of the research means and how it should be interpreted. A little bit of information can be a dangerous thing!            …read more.

Autism News Item: New Degree Helps Tackle Needs of Children with Autism

Source: Press Office, Department of Public Affairs, Mar 14 2006

Author: Press Office, Department of Public Affairs

The first Masters program specific to addressing the needs of autism has been started at the University of Ulster. Starting in September 2006 the school of Psychology in Coleraine will offer an MSc in Applied Behavioural Analysis. The program will be aimed at education and health professionals working with people with autism.         …read more.

Autism News Item: Dads getting a different kinder view

Source: The Age, March 6 2006

Author: Margaret Cook

Yooralla's Central Children's Centre in Narre Warren started a program called 'Papa Bears' 18 months ago. The program brings dads in and gives them the opportunity to spend time with their children as well as interact with other dads and the staff. The facility runs an integrated program and so it has allowed for more understanding and tolerance towards those with different needs.            …read more.

Autism News Item: Research-Based Computer-Assisted Therapy from TeachTown Now Available for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Source: TeachTown, Mar 1 2006

Author: TeachTown

A Seattle based research firm has released TeachTown: Basics. It is a computer program based on the principles of ABA that will assist in the learning and development of kids with autism. It has been developed through research by leaders in autism researchers and video game experts, and many are very excited about the outcomes of the program.           …read more.

Autism News Item: Lessons help autistic kids on market trips

Source: masslive.com, The Republican. March 1, 2006

Outings to shopping centers or supermarkets can be daunting with any child. There can be even more challenges when a parent has to worry about the behaviours that can come up with children with autism. THis article makes some suggestions about how to teach such children some guidelines so that eventually the trips to the market can be more successful.    ...read more.

February 2006

Autism News Item: New Thinking on Neurodevelopment

Source: Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 114, Number 2, February 2006

Author: Michael Szpir

This article outlines some of the history and knowledge regarding neurotoxins in the environment and their effects on health.            …read more.

Autism News Item: Book review; Autism Spectrum Disorder - a review for practitioners

Source: Book Forum in the American Journal of Psychiatry, 193, 2. Feb 2006

Author: Elissa P. Benedek, M.D. Ann Arbor, Mich.

This is a review for a new book that reviews the current literature and knowledge surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Benedek discusses how the book overviews the changes that have happened in treatment and options for people dealing with autism.    ...read more.

Autism News Item: Parents can counteract 'environments' created by children's genes

Source: Science Journal, Feb 24, 2006.

Author: Sharon Begley

A study is being conducted that investigates how the innate disposition of babies creates how parents interact with them, thus creating an environment. The theory is that babies who are solemn and cranky are treated more coldly than babies who are cheerful and happy. If true, it would mean that we can consciously change how we respond to a baby in order to create a happier environment.    ...read more.

Autism News Item: Protein molecule isolated as neurodegenerative drug target

Source: DrugResearcher.com, Feb. 23 2006.

Author: DrugResearcher.com

Researchers have identified a protein that is involved in learning and memory tasks. Work can now being done on refining a medication that will target these proteins and help to mediate synapses that are under or over active, and potentially treating issues with learning and memory.     ...read more.

Autism News Item: Ten Things Every Autistic Child Wishes You Knew

Source: Shafer Autism Report, Feb 22 2006

Author: Shafer Autism Report, adapted from Ellen Notbohm's list

This is a list of 10 things that children with autism 'wishes you knew' about understanding, interacting and communicating with them. The tips range from giving clear instructions, interpreting some behaviour and setting children up for success.   …read more.

Autism News Item: PediaMed Successfully Completes Clinical Trial Enrollment to Study Therapy In Children With Autism

Source: PediaMed Pharmaceuticals Inc., Feb. 22, 2006

Author: PediaMed.  

The paediatric pharmaceutical company PediaMed has just finished enrolling all of the participants for a Phase II study that will look at a medication designed to treat GI problems in children with autism.    …read more.

Autism News Item: IQ Testing for Nonverbal Abilities Yields Dramatically Improved Scores for Children with Autism

Source: Special Education Law Blog, February 21, 2006

Author: Charles Fox

Most measures of IQ are done with the WISC, which is a verbally based IQ test. Children with autism have deficits in this area so their IQ might be scored lower using this test than if other IQ tests were used that were more focussed on receptive skills.            …read more.

Autism News Item: AAAS: Kids Do Okay After Pregnant Moms Eat Mercury-Laden Fish

Source: MedPage Today, Feb 20 2006

Author: By Ed Susman, MedPage Today Staff Writer

A preliminary study was done that looked at children of mothers who had consumed fish with high levels of mercury while pregnant. They expected to find some delays or problems amongst children whose mothers had the highest levels of mercury in their diet, they did not find this. Authors warn that this does not prove that it is safe to consume fish with high mercury levels as the effects could still be there, the study may be showing some of the benefits of fish and fish oils though.    …read more.

Autism News Item: Making Early Developmental Screenings Routine

Source: Connect For Kids, Feb. 20, 2006.

Author: Amy Coutee

Parents play an important role in early detection of developmental issues in their children. If parents are able to identify problems or changes early and get their children in for regular screening then things will be caught and treated early.  …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism surrounded by misunderstanding-experts

Source: Yahoo! News, Feb 19 2006

Author: Maggie Fox, Health and Science Correspondent

There is a lot of different information surrounding the diagnosis, treatment, aetiology and impacts of autism and it is causing a lot of misunderstandings, mistrust and confusion. Concerns about how things such as IQ are being measured and the large number of websites claiming that vaccines and mercury are to blame are just some of the things causing confusion. Experts are saying that studies are needed to clarify some of this information.            …read more.

Autism News Item: Experts question prevalent stereotypes about autism

Source: Eureka Alert!, Feb 19 2006

Author: Morton Gernsbacher

Experts are meeting and discussing many of the common stereotypes about autism in order to identify which ones are misconceptions and which have a scientific basis. As the attention of media, the general public and the scientific community focuses more on autism there is a responsibility to sort these things out to help treatment.  …read more.

Autism News Item: 10 Things The Student with Autism Wishes You Knew (...and it makes sense for other kids too!)

Source: Shafer Autism Autism News, Feb 17 2006

Author: Ellen Notbohm

Ellen Notbohm writes about what a teacher needs to know about a child with autism. In the article she discusses some tips about dealing with children and how to set them up for success. She makes suggestions about how to make communication easier for children and creating a successful environment for learning.    ...read more.

Autism News Item: Scientists study mercury's link to autism, alzheimers.

Source: The Birmingham Autism News, al.com, Feb 13, 2006.

Author: Katherine Bouma, News Staff Writer

This article summarises some of the background of the arguments of mercury in various health issues. Katherine also highlights the various key arguments in the debate.  …read more.

Autism News Item: B12 Deficiency more Widespread than thought

Source: Harvard School of Public health

Author: Lindsay Allen

"Vitamin B-12 deficiency may be the most common nutritional deficiency in the developing world, and maybe even in the U.S.," said Lindsay Allen at the annual Stare-Hegsted Lecture in Snyder Auditorium on March 31. Allen, the director of the USDA Western Human Nutrition Research Center at the University of California, Davis, presented the lecture named for the late Fredrick Stare, the founding chair of the Department of Nutrition who died in 2002, and D. Mark Hegsted, HSPH professor emeritus. …read more.

Autism News Item: Research to consider Autism Dietary Treatment

Source: ABC Online, Feb 10, 2006.

Author: Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

A new study is being started at Newcastle University which looks at the role of vitamin B12 in autism. It is just being started, but the authors hope to learn about the genes that are used in metabolism of the vitamin, and thus a dietary intervention for autism or its prevention.   …read more.

Autism News Item: Eclectic treatments for children with autism have drawbacks

Source: Masslive.com, the Republican, Feb. 8, 06.

Author: Alan Harchik, PhD.

Parents of children with autism try and find any resource or intervention that will help their child. Quite often this results in an eclectic program for the child. These programs use both proven and unproven interventions, and often bring a variety to the program. There has been research done that is now suggesting that this type of approach is not as beneficial for all children.    …read more.

Autism News Item: Harvard School of Public Health Nutrition Expert Calls for Hospital and Government Cafeterias to Serve Healthier, Trans Fat-Free Foods

Source: Harvard School of Public Health, February 6, 2006

Author: Dr. Walter Willett

In a survey released today, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) documented the widespread sale of French fries high in trans fatty acids in the cafeterias of leading U.S. hospitals and in the cafeterias of some government agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).   …read more.

Autism News Item: Autism link with birth problems

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald, Feb 4 2006

Author: Julie Robotham, Medical Editor

A study done in Sydney suggests that infants who have seizures, trouble breathing or abnormal reflexes after birth are more likely to develop autism. Both autism and these problems after birth may be tied to something genetic or something that happens prior to birth. This is consistent with a broader theory of autism that suggests that children are genetically predisposed to the condition and something in their environment triggers its development.          …read more.

Autism News Item: fMRI of parents of children with Aspergers Syndrome: A pilot study.

Source: Brain Cognition, Feb. 3 2006.

Author: Baron-Cohen S, Ring H, Chitnis X, Whellwright S, Gregory L, Williams S, Brammer M, Bullmore E.

This is the abstract for the research article by Baron-Cohen, et al. The study aimed to look at whether there were differences in the functioning of parents (of children with autism) brains, as detected by an fMRI. There were differences noted, but the study is a pilot one and suggests that there is a need for further study.         …read more.

January 2006

Autism News Item: Eat to Live: What you eat is how you think

Source: United Press International. Consumer Health 18/01/06.

Author: Julia Watson, UPI Food Writer

Julia Watson discusses the Feeding Minds study put out by Sustain in conjunction with the Mental Health Foundation. The study suggests that what you eat affects how you think. She brings up some of the changes that have happened over the last century in regards to our food supply and how these changes in diet change the nutrients that we are receiving, though the study discusses this further. Her article summarises the views and interpretations of various groups and professionals in response to the study.                       …read Julia Watson’s article.      …read the Feeding Minds Study.

Autism News Item: Prevalence of Four Developmental Disabilities Among Children Aged 8 Years --- Metropolitan Atlanta Developmental Disabilities Surveillance Program 1996 and 2000

Source: Division of Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, National Centre on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, CDC

Author: Tanya Karapurkar Bhasin, MPH, Sally Brocksen, MSW, Rachel Nonkin Avchen, PhD, and Kim Van Naarden Braun, PhD.

There are substantial financial and social costs in the US due to developmental disabilities in children. This study, conducted by the Metropolitan Atlanta Developmental Disabilities Surveillance Program, discusses the rates and trends of four disabilities (Cerebral Palsy, Hearing loss, Vision impairment and Autism Spectrum Disorders). The changes over time in the prevalence of these disabilities show that there needs to be continued monitoring of occurrence, which will facilitate development and implementation of programs and services.          …read more.

December 2005

Autism News Item: The Fragile State Of Boyhood

Source: Autism Today: Everything you need to know about autism. Dec 7 2005.

Author: Rick Montgomery for Knight Ridder Newspapers.

This is a discussion of how boys are more likely to have trouble in school, with violence, with various disorders and difficulties and more issues with law and substance abuse.         …read more.

Autism News Item: Research on the risks of thimerosal.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Medicine 2005 Dec;16(6):971-7.

Author: Yel L, Brown LE, Su K, Gollapudi S, Gupta S.

This is an abstract of a study done by Yel, et al. that discusses the risks of thimerosal. There is raising concern over these risks and it is important that people study the biological effects of such compounds so that we can better understand what is going on.         …read more.

November 2005

Autism News Item: Study Confirms Parents' Claims: Birthday Home Videos Prove Existence of Autistic Regression

Source: Autism Today: Everything you need to know about autism, Nov 30 2006

Author: Autism Today

A study has been done that has confirmed what many have been saying for years. Children who seemed typically developed in videos from their first birthdays seem to have regressed by the time their second birthday has come.            …read more.

Autism News Item:  Can Childhood Vaccines Cause Autism?

Source: CBS4 Boston. Nov 9 2005

Author: Scott Wahle, Reporter

This article briefly outlines the debate around Thimerosal, its use in childhood vaccines and the connection to autism. Although the mainstream medical community does not support the idea that mercury poisoning (through the use of thimerosal as a preservative in vaccines) is linked to the causes of Autism, there are many groups that do. Many parents feel that it is more than coincidence that the onset of ASD symptoms happens so close in time to receiving the MMR vaccine. Wahle brings up some of the main points in this debate.         …read news article.

Autism News Item: Asperger syndrome from childhood into adulthood

Source: Advances in Psychiatric Treatment (2004), vol. 10, 341–351

Author: Tom Berney

Asperger syndrome is a form of autism that has milder impacts on speech and ability (as compared to classic autism) is often accompanied by other (co-morbid) psychiatric disorders. The disorder is well known to child psychiatry and the extent of its impact in adulthood is starting to be recognised. Berney reviews the diagnosis and assessment of the syndrome and its links with a range of psychiatric issues, including mental disorder, offending and mental capacity. He also describes the broader, non-psychiatric management of Asperger syndrome itself, including social and occupational support and education, and the implications the disorder has for our services.                       …read more.

Autism News Item: Drug Test.

Source: Columbia Journalism Review, Issue 6, Nov & Dec 2005

Author: Daniel Schulman, assistant editor.

The role of Thimerosal, a preservative used in vaccines, in autism has been hotly debated. Schulman reviews the information out there and presents both sides of the debate. Rather than passing judgment on which side is right he brings up some of the important documents that have been put forth by both sides as well as points out some of the impacts that have come out of all of this.         …read more.

October 2005

Autism News Item: Study Finds Government Advisories on Fish Consumption and Mercury May Do More Harm Than Good. Eating one fish meal per week gives significant nutritional benefit  

Source: Harvard School of Public Health. Wednesday, October 19, 2005

Author: Dr Walter Willett

Boston, MA ? A comparison of the risks and benefits of fish consumption suggests that government advisories warning women of childbearing age about mercury exposure should be issued with caution.  The study warns that if advisories cause fish consumption in the general public to drop out of fear about the effects of mercury, substantial nutritional benefits could be lost. The study will appear as a series of five articles in the November issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. read article.

Autism News Item: Struggling for services: Special Ed. often a world of parent-school tension.

Source: The Sacramento Bee, Oct 27, 2005

Author: Elizabeth Hume, writer.

Elizabeth outlines some of the challenges that have faced parents of children with disabilities in their quest for education and support for their child. The article is based in California, though there are stories everywhere of the battles that are faced by all parents in similar situations.      …read article.

Autism News Item: Training Parents Aids Autistic Kids' Language

Source: Autism Today. Everything you need to know about Autism. Oct 13 2005.

Author: