Autism

HealthDay News reports that federal health officials have said that the number of children in the U.S. with autism spectrum disorder has increased dramatically since 2007.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of 2012, one in 50 kids between the ages of 6 and 17 years has some form of autism, compared with one in 88 only five years earlier.

Report author, Stephen Blumberg, a senior scientist at the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics said,

Suzanne, mom of an autistic child provides a comprehensive list of wonderful references on research relating to autism and bowel activity.

Image Courtesy: Autismmomrising.com

Autism prevention? Dr. Robert Sears believes it's possible.......

Image Courtesy: www.thefamilygroove.com

For moms-to-be:

• Avoid vitamin D deficiency before, during and after pregnancy (if breast feeding).

• Avoid mercury. Moms-to-be should have metal fillings replaced at least three months prior to getting pregnant. Request mercury-free flu shots.

For infants:

• Limit antibiotics.

A diagnosis brings a variety of questions about how to proceed

A generation ago, many people with autism were placed in institutions; professionals were less educated about autism than they are today and specific services and supports were largely non-existent. Today the picture is much clearer. With appropriate services and supports, training, and information, children on the autism spectrum will grow, learn and flourish, even if at a different developmental rate than others.

Usually the time immediately after the diagnosis is a difficult one for families, filled with confusion, anger and despair. These are normal feelings. But there is life after a diagnosis of autism. Life can be rewarding for a child with autism and all the people who have the privilege of knowing the child. While it isn't always easy, you can learn to help your child find the world an interesting and loving place.

It is important that parents and professionals work together for the child's benefit in dealing with autism. While professionals will use their experience and training to make recommendations about your child's treatment options, you have unique knowledge about your child needs and abilities that should be taken into account for a more individualized course of action.

Autism Information Now

Delays in language are the most common types of developmental delay. 1 in 5 children will show a developmental delay in the speech or language area. Some children will also show behavioral challenges because they are frustrated when they can't express everyday needs, desires, or interests.

In an updated article on autism, the Autism Society of America, tells us that, finding that your child has an autism spectrum disorder can be an overwhelming experience. For some, the diagnosis may come as a complete surprise; others may have had suspicions and tried for months or years to get an accurate diagnosis. A diagnosis brings a variety of questions about how to proceed.