Autism Spectrum Disorders News

Family history of schizophrenia was associated with an increased risk for autism spectrum disorder in first-degree relatives, according to recent study results. Bipolar disorder showed a similar pattern of associations, but to a lesser extent.

Individual disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, epilepsy and cerebral palsy have been found to overlap in children, especially boys, according to study results.

Periconceptional folic acid taken during pregnancy may reduce the risk for autism spectrum disorders in children, according to new data from the American Society for Nutrition.

There is no universally accepted framework for diagnosing children who present with sensory-based problems, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The neuropeptide oxytocin increased brain function in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders, according to preliminary results from an ongoing study by Yale University researchers. The results were presented at the International Meeting for Autism Research in Toronto.

Researchers assigned to reviewing proposed changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders met at the 2012 American Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting to discuss details of the revised diagnostic criteria. Thirteen diagnostic work groups tested planned revisions in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Many of these work groups, according to the APA, cross-collaborated in drafting the proposed criteria.

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said successful legislation, federal programs and financial support from grants have helped raise awareness about the importance of mental health and greatly benefited those with mental health disorders. In 2011, 45.9 million American adults were diagnosed with a mental illness, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Six common patterns of social, communication and repetitive behavior functioning were identified in children with autism, according to Columbia University researchers. In the same study, researchers found that children with higher socioeconomic statuses will improve more rapidly than others. The study included 6,975 children aged 2 to 14 years, born in California and enrolled in the state’s Department of Developmental Services.

New study findings indicate several gene mutations appear to be linked with the development of autism.

Physicians who treat autism will face a wave of fresh questions — and some family and caregiver pressure — as debate intensifies over the latest diagnostic criteria proposals.