Diagnostic Disparities

Autism Not Diagnosed As Early In Minority Children

Submitted by Anonymous on February 28, 2012 - 16:45
Source: 
NPR
Link: 
Autism Not Diagnosed As Early In Minority Children
Date Published: 
February 28, 2012
Abstract: 

Early diagnosis is considered key for autism, but minority children tend to be diagnosed later than white children. Some new work is beginning to try to uncover why — and to raise awareness of the warning signs so more parents know they can seek help even for a toddler.

Minority Toddlers With Autism May Be More Delayed Than Affected Caucasian Peers

Submitted by Anonymous on February 23, 2012 - 11:42
Source: 
Medical News Today
Link: 
Minority Toddlers With Autism May Be More Delayed Than Affected Caucasian Peers
Date Published: 
February 23, 2012
Abstract: 

The first prospective study of ethnic differences in the symptoms of autism in toddlers shows that children from a minority background have more delayed language, communication and gross motor skills than Caucasian children with the disorder. Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute concluded that subtle developmental delays may be going unaddressed in minority toddlers until more severe symptoms develop.

Both Maternal and Paternal Age Linked to Autism

Submitted by Anonymous on February 10, 2012 - 10:06
Source: 
Science Daily
Link: 
Both Maternal and Paternal Age Linked to Autism
Date Published: 
February 10, 2012
Abstract: 

Older maternal and paternal age are jointly associated with having a child with autism, according to a recently published study led by researchers at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth).

Concern Over Changes to Autism Criteria Unfounded, Says APA

Submitted by Anonymous on January 27, 2012 - 10:29
Source: 
Medscape Today
Link: 
Concern Over Changes to Autism Criteria Unfounded, Says APA
Date Published: 
January 25, 2012
Abstract: 

Concerns that proposed changes to autism criteria in the upcoming Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) will exclude many individuals from diagnosis and treatment are unfounded, says the American Psychiatric Association (APA).

New Research Suggests Birth Weight Plays A Role In Autism Spectrum Disorder

Submitted by Anonymous on January 23, 2012 - 08:14
Source: 
Medical News Today
Link: 
New Research Suggests Birth Weight Plays A Role In Autism Spectrum Disorder
Date Published: 
January 23, 2012
Abstract: 

Although the genetic basis of autism is now well established, a growing body of research also suggests that environmental factors may play a role. Using a unique study design, a new study suggests that low birth weight is an important environmental factor contributing to the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Autism Rates Have Spiked, But Why?

Submitted by Anonymous on December 21, 2011 - 13:15
Source: 
NPR
Link: 
Autism Rates Have Spiked, But Why?
Date Published: 
December 20, 2011
Abstract: 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly one percent of U.S. children have some form of autism, 20 times higher than the rate in the 1980s. Alan Zarembo of The Los Angeles Times and clinical psychologist Catherine Lord discuss what's behind the growing number of diagnoses.

Autism Hidden in Plain Sight

Submitted by Anonymous on December 16, 2011 - 07:34
Source: 
LA Times
Link: 
Autism hidden in plain sight
Date Published: 
December 16, 2011
Abstract: 

As more children are diagnosed with autism, researchers are trying to find unrecognized cases of the disorder in adults. The search for the missing millions is just beginning.

Fetal Exposure to Epilepsy Drug Might Raise Autism Risk: Study

Submitted by Anonymous on December 8, 2011 - 09:07
Source: 
US News & World Report
Link: 
Fetal Exposure to Epilepsy Drug Might Raise Autism Risk: Study
Date Published: 
December 5, 2011
Abstract: 

Children exposed to the epilepsy drug valproate have a nearly three times higher risk of having an autism spectrum disorder, new research finds.

Diagnosing Autism Varies From Clinic To Clinic

Submitted by Anonymous on November 11, 2011 - 09:28
Source: 
Medical News Today
Link: 
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/237515.php
Date Published: 
November 11, 2011
Abstract: 

A new study published in the journal Archives of General Psychiatry suggests that the current gold standard of "best-estimate clinical diagnoses" for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders may not be the best method of diagnosis.

University of Missouri researchers have found distinct differences between the facial characteristics of children with autism compared to those of typically developing children.

Submitted by Anonymous on October 24, 2011 - 08:17
Source: 
Medical News Today
Link: 
Article
Date Published: 
October 22, 2011
Abstract: 

The face and brain develop in coordination, with each influencing the other, beginning in the embryo and continuing through adolescence. Now, University of Missouri researchers have found distinct differences between the facial characteristics of children with autism compared to those of typically developing children...