Autism & Developmental Disabilities

In 2014, 1 in 54 U.S. children presented with Autism Spectrum Disorder, which demonstrates an increase in prevalence relative to the rate of 1 in 150 children in the year 2000. Based on a 2018 study, almost half (44%) of children identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder demonstrate above average intellectual ability (CDC). The total costs per year for children with autism are estimated to be between $11.5-$60B.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) - which comprise a broad spectrum of neurobiological disorders that include autistic disorder, Asperger's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) - not otherwise specified - rank among the fastest-growing developmental disabilities in the nation. While ASDs share essential clinical and behavioral features, they differ dramatically in severity and age of onset.  ASDs, which are frequently diagnosed within the first four years of a child's life, encompass a variety of language, behavioral, physical and neurological symptoms. These include failure to develop normal social interaction and communiication, as well as restricted, repetitive, or stereotyped behaviors and interests.

Changes in diagnostic criteria and improvements in identifying cases only partially account for the sharp increase children with autism.  Many scientists attribute the increase at least in part to a variety of environmental factors in combination with genetic factors or genetic predispositions, rather than any single cause.  There are several recommended books on environmental links to autism:  Evidence of Harm and The Age of Autism:  Mercury, Medicine, and a Man-made Epidemic. 

As with many chronic diseases, research shows that diet can play a significant part in the healing process.  Dr. Kenneth Bock of  Rhinebeck Health Center has created specific guidelines for eliminating foods that may contribute to autism symptoms in "Healing the New Childhood Epedemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma and Allergies: The Ground Breaking Program for the 4-A Disorders"  The Feingold Diet also specifically addresses the nutritional needs of children with autism.  (Source: Growing Up Green:  Baby and Child Care by Deirdre Imus)

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Autism Resources

	Research Studies For published research on Autism and Environmental Health, search Environmental Health Perspectives
	AutismOne is a nonprofit, parent-driven organization that provides education and supports advocacy efforts for children and families touched by an autism diagnosis.
	The Thinking Moms’ Revolution is made up of twenty-three moms and one brave dad. Their group stretches from Montana to Malaysia to Montreal. While parenting children with autism spectrum disorder, chronic childhood diseases and disabilities, they came together to collaborate about biomedical, alternative healing modalities and dietary interventions, as well as doctors and researchers developing cutting edge treatments. In the process they became a tight-knit family dedicated to helping their children lose their diagnoses.
	SafeMinds was founded to raise awareness, support research, change policy and focus national attention on the growing evidence of a link between mercury and neurological disorders.

Generation Rescue brings to your attention scientists, physicians and community members who believe in recovery and are powerful advocates for families living with autism. 

	National Autism Association – NAA The mission of the National Autism Association is to respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach their full potential.
	Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet (SOKHOP) is at the forefront of a new movement focused on sustainable living practices and safe and effective methods for preventing and recovering our children from ADHD, Autism, Allergies, Asthma, Obesity, Diabetes etc. It is a forum where parents, teachers, therapists and physicians gather and learn from leading experts about safe and effective methods for preventing and treating many of the chronic conditions affecting our children today. Why in the midst of an abundance of research substantiating the use of nutrients, the role toxins play in these conditions and the importance of dietary changes to prevent and treat various conditions , does the pharmaceutical approach remain the most common (and sometimes the only) treatment option parents are given? Pharmaceuticals alone are not the solution to the growing health and behavioral conditions affecting our children. SOKHOP offers a chance to hear leaders in the fields of pediatrics, nutrition and the environment discuss real solutions for these growing problems.
	National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program The VICP was established to ensure an adequate supply of vaccines, stabilize vaccine costs, and establish and maintain an accessible and efficient forum for individuals found to be injured by certain vaccines. The VICP is a no-fault alternative to the traditional tort system for resolving vaccine injury claims that provides compensation to people found to be injured by certain vaccines. The U. S. Court of Federal Claims decides who will be paid. Three Federal government offices have a role in the VICP:

Autism File Magazine 

Last updated March 23, 2021