February 16th 2023
Both the CDC and the AAP stress the need to look at how resources are allocated for autism spectrum disorder.
Impact of the pandemic on kids with autism is significant
May 2nd 2021The pandemic has drastically changed the lives of children, but children with autism spectrum disorder in particular lost the routines that made life easier to handle. A study presented at the virtual 2021 Pediatric Academic Societies meeting offers insight.
Early screen time could lead to ASD-like symptoms
April 24th 2020Despite clear guidelines opposing it, some children aged younger than 18 months get screen time with televisions, tablets, or cell phones. A new study indicates that these early exposures could increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-like symptoms later in life.
Vaccinations: Immunizations Do Not Cause Autism Spectrum Disorder . . . They Prevent Disease
June 25th 2011In response to publicity about an alleged but erroneous link between vaccination and autism, the number of children who are being immunized has decreased. This is of concern because many vaccine-preventable diseases have potentially devastating and even lethal consequences.
Making a Better Place to Live For Children With Autism
April 13th 2011West Virginia (the state in which I practice) was not one of the 10 best places to live if you have autism, according to this year’s survey from Autism Speaks. Although thanks to a piece of legislation enacted this month, it is now a better place to live if you have autism. Your state can become better too.
Transition to Adulthood for Youths With Autism and the Need to Advocate an Early Start
April 6th 2011The recent article in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine by Shattuck and colleagues should act as a wakeup call to all policymakers about the use of resources for families with disabilities. The transition from being a dependent adolescent with autism to an independent adult requires a major financial and social investment from schools, families, and entire communities.
Navigating the Autism Therapy Maze: 9 Ways to Help Families Find What Works
September 9th 2010Families of children with an autism spectrum disorder face many hurdles when seeking care for their child. Creating resource handouts for parents and partnering with educational institutions and research facilities are just a few ways pediatricians can help guide these families through the maze of therapeutic options.
Child With Difficulty in Walking
April 29th 2010A 4-year-old boy with a history of autism presents to his pediatrician’s office with a complaint of right leg pain. He is presumed to have pulled a muscle; an elastic bandage is applied and he is given ibuprofen. Over the next few days, he begins falling and tripping and is unable to maintain his balance. At a return visit, the patient’s mother says her son’s right leg is “like Jell-O” and that he appears to be dragging the leg.