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Abstract
The sex difference in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be magnified by sex differences on diagnostic measures. The current study compared autistic males and females on items on the gold-standard diagnostic measure, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). In a sample of 8-to-17-year old autistic individuals from research (n = 229) and clinical settings (n = 238), females were less likely to show atypicalities on most items related to social-communication behaviors and on total and subscale scores. When controlling for overall intensity of symptomatology, no sex differences survived statistical corrections. Diagnostic criteria and/or gold-standard assessments may be less sensitive to female presentations of ASD and/or autistic females may exhibit fewer or less intense behaviors characteristic of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Rea
- Psychiatry & Behavioral Science Department, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Roald A Øien
- UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, PB 6060, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Frederick Shic
- Center On Child Health, Behavior & Development, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Sara Jane Webb
- Psychiatry & Behavioral Science Department, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- Center On Child Health, Behavior & Development, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Allison B Ratto
- Children's National Medical Center, 15245 Shady Grove Road, Suite 350, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA.
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Tan WY, Hamzaid NH, Ibrahim N. Parental Perceptions on the Importance of Nutrients for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the Coping Strategies: A Qualitative Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15071608. [PMID: 37049449 PMCID: PMC10096955 DOI: 10.3390/nu15071608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that comes with co-occurring eating behavior such as limited food varieties, selective food intake, and repetitive eating patterns, contributing to significant challenges for their parents. Many parents find mealtimes difficult and develop anxiety or stress about their child’s nutrition, health, and overall well-being. Hence, parents must equip themselves with the correct awareness and nutrition knowledge. An online open-ended semi-structured interview was conducted among fifteen parents from the community-rehabilitation program center to explore their understanding of nutrition’s importance and the possible coping strategies when facing challenges. The interview sessions were recorded, followed by three researchers’ coding processes. Data were then subjected to thematic analysis. The interview sessions suggested that the parents were aware of the autism trait eating behavior and had a general knowledge about nutrition. However, it was quite challenging when it came to preparation. Nevertheless, the parents are able to manage the challenges with unique kinds of coping strategies. In addition, a complete educational dietary intervention program including psychosocial aspects for parents is recommended for better effectiveness.
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Abraham DA, Udayakumar N, Rajendran L, Rajendran R, Rajanandh MG. Herbal medicine as a first-line choice of complementary medicine for South Indian parents/caregivers in the management of ASD children. J Herb Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2022.100583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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4
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A Narrative Review about Autism Spectrum Disorders and Exclusion of Gluten and Casein from the Diet. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091797. [PMID: 35565765 PMCID: PMC9102850 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) appear in the early stages of neurodevelopment, and they remain constant throughout life. Currently, due to limitations in ASDs treatment, alternative approaches, such as nutritional interventions, have frequently been implemented. The aim of this narrative review is to gather the most relevant and updated studies about dietary interventions related to ASDs etiopathogenesis. Results: Our literature search focused on the gluten- and casein-free (GFCF) diet. The literature found shows the inexistence of enough scientific evidence to support a general recommendation of dietary intervention in children with ASD. Protocols and procedures for assessing risk and safety are also needed. Future lines: Prospective and controlled research studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up times are scarce and needed. In addition, studies considering an assessment of intestinal permeability, bacterial population, enzymatic, and inflammatory gastrointestinal activity are interesting to identify possible responders. Besides brain imaging techniques, genetic tests can also contribute as markers to evaluate the comorbidity of gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Lord C, Charman T, Havdahl A, Carbone P, Anagnostou E, Boyd B, Carr T, de Vries PJ, Dissanayake C, Divan G, Freitag CM, Gotelli MM, Kasari C, Knapp M, Mundy P, Plank A, Scahill L, Servili C, Shattuck P, Simonoff E, Singer AT, Slonims V, Wang PP, Ysrraelit MC, Jellett R, Pickles A, Cusack J, Howlin P, Szatmari P, Holbrook A, Toolan C, McCauley JB. The Lancet Commission on the future of care and clinical research in autism. Lancet 2022; 399:271-334. [PMID: 34883054 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)01541-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 127.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Havdahl
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Paul Carbone
- Department of Pediatrics at University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Evdokia Anagnostou
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Themba Carr
- Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Encinitas, CA, USA
| | - Petrus J de Vries
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Peter Mundy
- University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Chiara Servili
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Vicky Slonims
- Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Paul P Wang
- Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative, Simons Foundation, New York, NY, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Rachel Jellett
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Patricia Howlin
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Peter Szatmari
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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A white paper on a neurodevelopmental framework for drug discovery in autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 48:49-88. [PMID: 33781629 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In the last decade there has been a revolution in terms of genetic findings in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), with many discoveries critical for understanding their aetiology and pathophysiology. Clinical trials in single-gene disorders such as fragile X syndrome highlight the challenges of investigating new drug targets in NDDs. Incorporating a developmental perspective into the process of drug development for NDDs could help to overcome some of the current difficulties in identifying and testing new treatments. This paper provides a summary of the proceedings of the 'New Frontiers Meeting' on neurodevelopmental disorders organised by the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology in conjunction with the Innovative Medicines Initiative-sponsored AIMS-2-TRIALS consortium. It brought together experts in developmental genetics, autism, NDDs, and clinical trials from academia and industry, regulators, patient and family associations, and other stakeholders. The meeting sought to provide a platform for focused communication on scientific insights, challenges, and methodologies that might be applicable to the development of CNS treatments from a neurodevelopmental perspective. Multidisciplinary translational consortia to develop basic and clinical research in parallel could be pivotal to advance knowledge in the field. Although implementation of clinical trials for NDDs in paediatric populations is widely acknowledged as essential, safety concerns should guide each aspect of their design. Industry and academia should join forces to improve knowledge of the biology of brain development, identify the optimal timing of interventions, and translate these findings into new drugs, allowing for the needs of users and families, with support from regulatory agencies.
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Haller H, Dobos G, Cramer H. The use and benefits of Craniosacral Therapy in primary health care: A prospective cohort study. Complement Ther Med 2021; 58:102702. [PMID: 33647398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients frequently use treatments complementary to standard primary care. This prospective cohort-study examined the use, benefits, and safety of Craniosacral Therapy (CST). METHODS Consecutive out-patients utilizing CST from 2015 to 2019 were asked to provide anonymized data on symptom intensity, functional disability, and quality of life before and after treatment using an adapted 11-point numerical rating scale (NRS) version of the Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP). Treatment expectations were assessed as were concurrent therapies/medication and safety. Mean differences were analyzed using paired sample t-tests with 95 % confidence intervals (CI), predictors of treatment response using linear regression modelling. RESULTS CST therapists submitted 220 patient records (71.4 % female) including 15.5 % infants and toddlers, 7.7 % children, and 76.8 % adolescents and adults. Patients received on average 7.0 ± 7.3 CST sessions to treat 114 different, acute and chronic conditions. Symptom intensity significantly decreased by -4.38 NRS (95 %CI=-4.69/-4.07), disability by -4.41 NRS (95 %CI=-4.78/-4.05), and quality of life improved by 2.94 NRS (95 %CI = 2.62/3.27). Furthermore, CST enhanced personal resources by 3.10 NRS (95 %CI = 1.99/4.21). Independent positive predictors of change in the adapted total MYMOP score included patients' expectations (p = .001) and therapists' CST experience (p = .013), negative predictors were symptom duration (p < .002) and patient age (p = .021); a final categorical predictor was CST type (p = .023). Minor but no serious adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS In primary care, patients and parents of underage children use CST for preventive and therapeutic purposes. Considering the design limitations, CST appears to be overall effective and safe in infants, children, and adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidemarie Haller
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
| | - Gustav Dobos
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Holger Cramer
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Kütük MÖ, Tufan AE, Kılıçaslan F, Güler G, Çelik F, Altıntaş E, Gökçen C, Karadağ M, Yektaş Ç, Mutluer T, Kandemir H, Büber A, Topal Z, Acikbas U, Giray A, Kütük Ö. High Depression Symptoms and Burnout Levels Among Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Multi-Center, Cross-Sectional, Case-Control Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:4086-4099. [PMID: 33459915 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-04874-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a child affects family processes, increases parenting stress and marital conflicts, and may lead to parental psychopathology. It may also affect the prognosis for their children. The aim of this study is to determine depression and burnout levels as well as their predictors among parents of children with ASD compared with those of healthy children. We also sought to evaluate rate of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) interventions among parents and explore the associations of this phenomenon in an exploratory fashion. 145 children with ASD and 127 control children were enrolled along with their mothers and fathers. Beck Depression Inventory and Maslach Burnout Inventory were used to evaluate parents' depression symptoms and burnout levels. Symptoms of children with ASDs were evaluated according to the Childhood Autism Rating Scale by the clinicians. Family, child and CAM variables were screened by means of a sociodemographic data form. Descriptive, bivariate and correlation analyses were used in statistical evaluations. Predictors of burnout were evaluated with multiple regression analysis. Burnout and depression levels among parents of children with ASD were significantly elevated compared to controls. Burnout levels of mothers were significantly elevated compared to fathers while depression scores of fathers were significantly elevated compared to mothers. Maternal burnout was significantly predicted by presence of functional speech in child while paternal burnout was significantly predicted by paternal vocation. Maternal depression was associated with paternal depression, lack of speech in child and attendance of child to special education services. Paternal depression was associated with autistic symptom severity and maternal depression. More than half the parents sought CAM interventions. Education level did not affect search for CAM interventions while both maternal and paternal psychopathology and presence of epilepsy among children increased use of CAM methods. Psychological support should be provided to both mothers and fathers of a child receiving a diagnosis of ASD. Addressing parents' burnout and stress levels and facilitating their negotiation of knowledge on etiology and treatments for ASD may be beneficial for the family unit as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meryem Özlem Kütük
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Baskent University, Dr. Turgut Noyan Medical and Research Center, Adana, Turkey
| | - Ali Evren Tufan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University Medical Faculty, Bolu, Turkey.
| | - Fethiye Kılıçaslan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mehmet Akif İnan Education and Research Hospital, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - Gülen Güler
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Fatma Çelik
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Malatya State Hospital, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ebru Altıntaş
- Department of Psychiatry, Başkent University, Dr. Turgut Noyan Medical and Research Center, Adana, Turkey
| | - Cem Gökçen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Karadağ
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Çiğdem Yektaş
- Uskudar University Medical Faculty, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tuba Mutluer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Koç University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Hasan Kandemir
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Büber
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Zehra Topal
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Ufuk Acikbas
- Department of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Aslı Giray
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Alaaddin Keykubat University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Özgür Kütük
- Department of Medical Genetics, Başkent University, Adana Dr. Turgut Noyan Medical and Research Center, Adana, Turkey
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Baspinar B, Yardimci H. Gluten-Free Casein-Free Diet for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Can It Be Effective in Solving Behavioural and Gastrointestinal Problems? Eurasian J Med 2020; 52:292-297. [PMID: 33209084 PMCID: PMC7651765 DOI: 10.5152/eurasianjmed.2020.19230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder [ASD] is characterized by deficits in communication and social interactions combined with repetitive and restricted patterns of behaviors. Bidirectional changes in brain-gut microbiota are known to be responsible for the pathophysiology of many brain-related disorders, such as autism, as well as well-known gastrointestinal diseases, including gut disorders. Imbalance in the composition of gut microbiota is frequently observed in individuals with ASD. It is therefore believed that this imbalance is significant in the frequent occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms. The integrity of the intestinal barrier and the blood-brain barrier [BBB] in individuals with ASD is affected. Incompletely digested peptides, toxins, and proinflammatory cytokines cross the BBB by entering the bloodstream and reach the central nervous system. As a result of the accumulation of these elements, brain function is adversely affected. It is hypothesized that incompletely digested peptides acting as opioid agonists reduce pain sensitivity and increase the severity of autism-specific behaviors. However, it is not known exactly how opioid peptides trigger ASD symptoms after they reach the brain. Diet therapies, especially elimination diets, are considered to be an alternative treatment to prevent this condition. Gluten-free casein-free [GFCF] diet is an elimination diet that involves the removal of certain proteins from the normal diet, such as gluten and casein. However, studies that demonstrate the beneficial effects of the GFCF diet on ASD patients and explain its mechanism is limited, which supports the opioid theory. This review aims to investigate the gastrointestinal and behavioral problems that are frequently observed in ASD, the possible action mechanisms of GFCF diets, and the efficacy of these elimination diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Busra Baspinar
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Ankara University Faculty of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hulya Yardimci
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Ankara University Faculty of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
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Zakirova-Engstrand R, Hirvikoski T, Westling Allodi M, Roll-Pettersson L. Culturally diverse families of young children with ASD in Sweden: Parental explanatory models. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236329. [PMID: 32716951 PMCID: PMC7384670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research suggests that families' knowledge and cultural perceptions of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and beliefs about its etiology and prognosis, can affect parents' recognition of the first signs of autism in their children and influence help seeking and treatment decisions. OBJECTIVE This study investigated explanatory models of autism among parents of young children with ASD in the multicultural context of Sweden. METHOD Seventeen parents from diverse cultural, ethnic and linguistic backgrounds participated in semi-structured interviews. A deductive approach to qualitative content analysis was used to analyze data. Five domains of the Explanatory Model supplementary module of the Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) were used as coding categories, operationalized as 'Parents' understanding of autism'; 'Autism prototypes'; 'Causal explanations'; 'Course of autism', and 'Help seeking and treatment expectations'. RESULTS The results showed that parents' prior knowledge of autism and experience of young children's typical developmental trajectories, as well as the opinions of children's grandparents and preschool teachers, affected symptom recognition and help seeking. There were differences in parents' explanatory models before and after ASD diagnosis. Initial interpretations of the disorder included medical conditions and reaction to environmental influences, while genetic, supernatural/religious factors, and vaccinations were mentioned as definite causes after obtaining a clinical diagnosis. Parents also held multiple explanatory models, influenced by the views of family members and information obtained from media or from health care professionals. Parents' treatment decisions included use of available state-funded support services, and complementary and alternative treatments. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate the utility of the CFI's Explanatory Model supplementary module in autism research. Implications for clinical practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tatja Hirvikoski
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Pediatric Neuropsychiatry Unit, Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders at Karolinska Institutet (KIND), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Habilitation & Health, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
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D’Alò GL, De Crescenzo F, Minozzi S, Morgano GP, Mitrova Z, Scattoni ML, Amato L, Davoli M, Schünemann HJ. Equity, acceptability and feasibility of using polyunsaturated fatty acids in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: a rapid systematic review. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:101. [PMID: 32299432 PMCID: PMC7164335 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01354-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Some recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessed the efficacy and safety of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To optimally inform the Italian guideline for the management of ASD in children and adolescents, we reviewed the impact on equity, acceptability and feasibility for developing a pilot recommendation for PUFAs. METHODS We performed a rapid systematic review of observational and experimental studies on PUFAs for children and adolescents with ASD, extracting data on resources required, equity, acceptability, and feasibility of PUFAs. We followed the framework provided by the grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) methodology, and we assessed risk of bias and methodological quality of included studies. Results were synthesized both narratively and quantitatively to address clinically relevant questions on equity, acceptability, and feasibility. RESULTS We found 14 papers related to equity. PUFAs did not seem to impact equity importantly. We did not find variation in effectiveness across subgroups and in a base case scenario, the cost of a 12 weeks cycle of therapy with 1.155 g/day of PUFAs was €65.51 euro. The acceptability of PUFAs was evaluated in 17 studies, 9 of which were RCTs. PUFAs were widely used among children and adolescents with ASD (18 to 51%), and 50% of parents considered nutritional supplementation as useful. Difficulty in swallowing capsules and bad taste were identified as possible causes of poor compliance, but treatment adherence, when measured in included RCTs, was judged to be good to excellent. Discontinuation due to any cause for PUFAs could not differ from placebo (low certainty of evidence). The feasibility of using PUFAs was assessed in 12 studies. PUFAs were probably sustainable, and no particular critical issue emerged from the feasibility assessment. However, the evidence appeared scarce and indirect. CONCLUSIONS We found the administration of PUFAs in children and adolescents with ASD to be potentially equitable, acceptable and feasible. These results are limited by the limited number and quality of retrieved documents, and need to be viewed in light of efficacy and safety data to formulate clinical recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gian Loreto D’Alò
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00154 Rome, Italy
- School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco De Crescenzo
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00154 Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Pediatric University Hospital-Department (DPUO), Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Minozzi
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00154 Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Paolo Morgano
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact (formerly Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster GRADE Centre, Michael G DeGroote Cochrane Canada Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Zuzana Mitrova
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00154 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Scattoni
- Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Amato
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00154 Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Davoli
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00154 Rome, Italy
| | - Holger J. Schünemann
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact (formerly Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster GRADE Centre, Michael G DeGroote Cochrane Canada Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Evidence-based support for autistic people across the lifespan: maximising potential, minimising barriers, and optimising the person-environment fit. Lancet Neurol 2020; 19:434-451. [PMID: 32142628 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(20)30034-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism is both a medical condition that gives rise to disability and an example of human variation that is characterised by neurological and cognitive differences. The goal of evidence-based intervention and support is to alleviate distress, improve adaptation, and promote wellbeing. Support should be collaborative, with autistic individuals, families, and service providers taking a shared decision-making approach to maximise the individual's potential, minimise barriers, and optimise the person-environment fit. Comprehensive, naturalistic early intervention with active caregiver involvement can facilitate early social communication, adaptive functioning, and cognitive development; targeted intervention can help to enhance social skills and aspects of cognition. Augmentative and alternative communication interventions show preliminary evidence of benefit in minimising communication barriers. Co-occurring health issues, such as epilepsy and other neurodevelopmental disorders, sleep problems, and mental health challenges, should be treated in a timely fashion. The creation of autism-friendly contexts is best achieved by supporting families, reducing stigma, enhancing peer understanding, promoting inclusion in education, the community, and at work, and through advocacy.
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Abstract
The use of medical cannabis in children is rapidly growing. While robust evidence currently exists only for pure cannabidiol (CBD) to treat specific types of refractory epilepsy, in most cases, artisanal strains of CBD-rich medical cannabis are being used to treat children with various types of refractory epilepsy or irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Other common pediatric disorders that are being considered for cannabis treatment are Tourette syndrome and spasticity. As recreational cannabis use during youth is associated with serious adverse events and medical cannabis use is believed to have a relatively high placebo effect, decisions to use medical cannabis during childhood and adolescence should be made with caution and based on evidence. This review summarizes the current evidence for safety, tolerability, and efficacy of medical cannabis in children with epilepsy and in children with ASD. The main risks associated with use of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD in the pediatric population are described, as well as the debate regarding the use of whole-plant extract to retain a possible "entourage effect" as opposed to pure cannabinoids that are more standardized and reproducible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Aran
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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Masri AT, Khatib F, Al Qudah A, Nafi O, Almomani M, Bashtawi M, Alomari F, Qutifan S, Qutifan A. Parental use of conventional and complementary therapy for autism in Jordan. Complement Ther Med 2020; 48:102275. [PMID: 31987222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated parental use of conventional therapies and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for children with autism in Jordan. METHOD This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2018 through December 2018 at the paediatric neurology clinics of three tertiary referral hospitals in Jordan. The accompanying parent was interviewed to complete a structured questionnaire. RESULTS 274 parents were interviewed. The most common medications used were those to treat hyperactivity (150; 54.7 %), anticonvulsants (60; 21.9 %), and sleep aids (6; 2.1 %). CAM was used by 129 parents (47.0 %). A casein-free diet was the most commonly used dietary modification (24; 8.7 %), while fish oil (Omega-3) was the most common supplement used (96; 35.0 %). Hyperbaric oxygen, chelation therapy, and antifungal treatment were also occasionally used. Higher parental education levels and access to rehabilitation services correlated with higher CAM use (p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira T Masri
- Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Department Division of Child Neurology, The University of Jordan, Jordan.
| | - Faisal Khatib
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Jordan.
| | - Abdelkarim Al Qudah
- Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Department Division of Child Neurology, The University of Jordan, Jordan.
| | - Omar Nafi
- Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mutah University, Jordan.
| | - Miral Almomani
- Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan.
| | - Mahmoud Bashtawi
- Neuroscience Department, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan.
| | - Farah Alomari
- Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Department, The University of Jordan, Jordan.
| | | | - Ahed Qutifan
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Jordan.
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Parents' experiences of information-seeking and decision-making regarding complementary medicine for children with autism spectrum disorder: a qualitative study. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:4. [PMID: 32020887 PMCID: PMC7076878 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2805-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Complementary and alternative medicine and therapies (CAM) are widely used by parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, there is a gap in our understanding of how and why parents of children with ASD make decisions about CAM treatment, and how “evidence” influences their decision-making. The aim of this study was to explore views and perspectives on CAM decision-making among parents of children with ASD in Australia. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of children with ASD (18 years and under) who were living in Australia. The interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed and then analysed using thematic analysis. Results Twenty-one parents were interviewed (20 women and one man). The mean age of participants was 43 years, (SD = 5.12 years), the majority of whom were born in Australia (71%), and almost half (43%) had a bachelor degree or higher. Three main themes were identifiedin the thematic analysis. First theme was ‘Parents’ experiences of researching CAM treatments, the second theme was, “Navigating CAM information and practices”, which comprises of the subthemes: Assessing information on CAM treatments’ What counts as ‘evidence’? and Assessing the impact of CAM treatments on the child - What counts as effective?, and the final theme was, “Creating a central and trustworthy source about CAM”. Across themes parents’ CAM decision-making was described as pragmatic, influenced by time, cost, and feasibility. Parents also reported that information on CAM was complex and often conflicting, and the creation of a centralised and reliable source of information on CAM was identified as a potential solution to these challenges. Conclusion The development of evidence-based information resources for parents and supporting CAM health literacy may assist with navigating CAM decision-making for children’s with ASD.
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Zhukova M, Talantseva O, Logvinenko T, Titova O, Grigorenko E. Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Review for Parents and Clinicians. КЛИНИЧЕСКАЯ И СПЕЦИАЛЬНАЯ ПСИХОЛОГИЯ 2020. [DOI: 10.17759/cpse.2020090310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Complementary and alternative therapy (CAT) methods for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are widespread in European countries and the Russian Federation; however, their efficacy and safety is not routinely considered by parents and clinicians when recommended or used. The current narrative review presents the most widely known CAT interventions for children with ASD synthesizing data from meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and randomized controlled trials obtained from the PubMed database based on the safety-efficacy model. We have found that, of the reviewed CATs, only the melatonin intervention can be considered safe and effective for children with ASD with comorbid sleep problems. The methods that were classified as safe but had inconclusive efficacy are recommended to be implemented only when they do not interfere with front line treatment for ASD, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Methods with the lack of current evidence for the efficacy such as auditory integration therapies, bioacoustic correction, sensory integration therapy, micropolarization, animal assisted therapy, and dietary interventions should not be recommended as alternative treatments and can only be used as complimentary to ABA-based interventions. We advise against the use of chelation, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and holding therapy due their documented harmful psychological and physical effects. When considering CAT for ASD we recommend parents and clinicians use the criteria suggested by Lofthouse and colleagues [59]: only the therapies that are safe, easy, cheap, and sensible can be recommended and used, as opposed to therapies that are risky, unrealistic, difficult, or expensive that should not be recommended or utilized.
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17
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Fraguas D, Díaz-Caneja CM, Pina-Camacho L, Moreno C, Durán-Cutilla M, Ayora M, González-Vioque E, de Matteis M, Hendren RL, Arango C, Parellada M. Dietary Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-analysis. Pediatrics 2019; 144:peds.2018-3218. [PMID: 31586029 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2018-3218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Dietary interventions such as restrictive diets or supplements are common treatments for young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Evidence for the efficacy of these interventions is still controversial. OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy of specific dietary interventions on symptoms, functions, and clinical domains in subjects with ASD by using a meta-analytic approach. DATA SOURCES Ovid Medline, PsycINFO, Embase databases. STUDY SELECTION We selected placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trials assessing the efficacy of dietary interventions in ASD published from database inception through September 2017. DATA EXTRACTION Outcome variables were subsumed under 4 clinical domains and 17 symptoms and/or functions groups. Hedges' adjusted g values were used as estimates of the effect size of each dietary intervention relative to placebo. RESULTS In this meta-analysis, we examined 27 double-blind, randomized clinical trials, including 1028 patients with ASD: 542 in the intervention arms and 486 in the placebo arms. Participant-weighted average age was 7.1 years. Participant-weighted average intervention duration was 10.6 weeks. Dietary supplementation (including omega-3, vitamin supplementation, and/or other supplementation), omega-3 supplementation, and vitamin supplementation were more efficacious than the placebo at improving several symptoms, functions, and clinical domains. Effect sizes were small (mean Hedges' g for significant analyses was 0.31), with low statistical heterogeneity and low risk of publication bias. LIMITATIONS Methodologic heterogeneity among the studies in terms of the intervention, clinical measures and outcomes, and sample characteristics. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis does not support nonspecific dietary interventions as treatment of ASD but suggests a potential role for some specific dietary interventions in the management of some symptoms, functions, and clinical domains in patients with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Fraguas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; .,Centro de Investigaciòn Biomédica en Red Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain
| | - Covadonga M Díaz-Caneja
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciòn Biomédica en Red Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Pina-Camacho
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciòn Biomédica en Red Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carmen Moreno
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciòn Biomédica en Red Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Durán-Cutilla
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miriam Ayora
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emiliano González-Vioque
- Centro de Investigaciòn Biomédica en Red Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain.,Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Congenital Metabolic Diseases, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago, Spain; and
| | - Mario de Matteis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert L Hendren
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Celso Arango
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciòn Biomédica en Red Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mara Parellada
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciòn Biomédica en Red Salud Mental, Madrid, Spain
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18
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Bejarano-Martín Á, Canal-Bedia R, Magán-Maganto M, Fernández-Álvarez C, Cilleros-Martín MV, Sánchez-Gómez MC, García-Primo P, Rose-Sweeney M, Boilson A, Linertová R, Roeyers H, Van der Paelt S, Schendel D, Warberg C, Cramer S, Narzisi A, Muratori F, Scattoni ML, Moilanen I, Yliherva A, Saemundsen E, Loa Jónsdóttir S, Efrim-Budisteanu M, Arghir A, Papuc SM, Vicente A, Rasga C, Rogé B, Guillon Q, Baduel S, Kafka JX, Poustka L, Kothgassner OD, Kawa R, Pisula E, Sellers T, Posada de la Paz M. Early Detection, Diagnosis and Intervention Services for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the European Union (ASDEU): Family and Professional Perspectives. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 50:3380-3394. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04253-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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19
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Campisi L, Imran N, Nazeer A, Skokauskas N, Azeem MW. Autism spectrum disorder. Br Med Bull 2019; 127:91-100. [PMID: 30215678 DOI: 10.1093/bmb/ldy026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Sources of data This article is based on key recent published literature including international guidelines and relevant reviews and meta-analyses. Authors have also supplemented this material with their own clinical experience. Areas of agreement There is an agreement that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a strong hereditary component. There is also a consensus that the reported prevalence estimates have increased in the last 5 years. There is strong support for using the broader spectrum disorder conceptualization of the DSM-5. Areas of controversy Higher public awareness of ASD has generated several controversial theories of causation. We review a number of environmental risk factors receiving media attention including: vaccines, mercury, heavy metal exposure and Selective Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). Popular yet controversial treatment interventions are discussed. Early diagnostic screening tools are also addressed. Growing points There is increasing scientific interest in identifying biomarkers of autism with potential for early diagnosis, prognostic indicators and predictive treatment responses. We review evidence from genetics, neuroimaging and eye tracking as candidate biomarkers. Area timely for developing research Family studies point to a strong hereditary component in the aetiology of autism. However these studies have not established 100% concordance rates, suggesting a role for environmental factors. The gene-environment interplay has not received enough attention in scientific research. This represents an important new avenue for research in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Campisi
- Department of Psychiatry, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nazish Imran
- Child and Family Psychiatry Department, King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ahsan Nazeer
- Department of Psychiatry, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar
| | - Norbert Skokauskas
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Child Protection, Faculty of Medicine, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Muhammad Waqar Azeem
- Department of Psychiatry, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
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20
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Lindly OJ, Thorburn S, Heisler K, Reyes NM, Zuckerman KE. Parents' Use of Complementary Health Approaches for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 48:1803-1818. [PMID: 29243100 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of why parents use complementary health approaches (CHA) for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is limited. We conducted a mixed methods study to better understand factors influencing parents' decision to use CHA for ASD. Parent-reported data about CHA use were collected on a probability sample of 352 young children with ASD in Denver, Colorado; Los Angeles, California; or Portland, Oregon. Follow-back interviews were conducted with 31 parents. CHA use was negatively associated with older child age and positively associated with parents' belief ASD has major consequences, living in Portland or Denver, and medication use. Nine themes help explain these results. Study findings may have utility for healthcare providers working with children with ASD and their families regarding CHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia J Lindly
- Department of General Academic Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children and Harvard Medical School, 125 Nashua Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
- Division of General Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 707 SW Gaines Street, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Sheryl Thorburn
- School of Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 401 Waldo Hall, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Karen Heisler
- Childhood Health Associates of Salem, Oregan, Salem, USA
| | - Nuri M Reyes
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, 13121 E. 17th Avenue, 5th Floor, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Katharine E Zuckerman
- Division of General Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 707 SW Gaines Street, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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21
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Xu G, Strathearn L, Liu B, O’Brien M, Kopelman TG, Zhu J, Snetselaar LG, Bao W. Prevalence and Treatment Patterns of Autism Spectrum Disorder in the United States, 2016. JAMA Pediatr 2019; 173:153-159. [PMID: 30508021 PMCID: PMC6439607 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2018.4208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. Previous surveys have reported a steady increase in ASD prevalence in US children over the past decades. Several behavioral therapies and medications have been developed to treat the symptoms of ASD; however, little is known about the current status of treatment usage for children diagnosed as having ASD. OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence and treatment patterns of ASD among US children using nationally representative data. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This study used data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health, a nationwide, population-based, cross-sectional survey. We included 43 032 children aged 3 to 17 years. Data were collected through questionnaires completed by a parent or guardian. Data were analyzed from February 2018 to March 2018. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Outcome variables included ASD diagnosed by a physician or health professional and the use of behavioral treatment or medication treatment among children with ASD. RESULTS Of the 43 032 included participants, 22 072 (51.3%) were male, and the mean (SD) age was 10.7 (4.4) years. The weighted prevalence of ever-diagnosed ASD and current ASD were 2.79% (95% CI, 2.46-3.12) and 2.50% (95% CI, 2.21-2.79), respectively. The state-level prevalence of ever-diagnosed ASD varied from 1.54% (95% CI, 0.60-2.48) in Texas to 4.88% (95% CI, 2.72-7.05) in Florida. Nationally, about 70% of children with current ASD (70.5%; 95% CI, 65.1-75.8) were treated; 43.3% (95% CI, 37.4-49.2) received behavioral treatment only, 6.9% (95% CI, 3.7-10.1) received medication treatment only, and 20.3% (95% CI, 16.5-24.1) received both behavioral and medication treatments. The remaining 29.5% (95% CI, 24.2-34.9) of children with current ASD did not receive either behavioral or medication treatment. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This study showed that the prevalence of ASD in the United States was relatively high, and it varied substantially across US states. Almost 30% of US children with ASD did not receive behavioral or medication treatment, which calls for a critical need to understand and address the barriers for those children to receive appropriate treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guifeng Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City,Center for Disabilities and Development, University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Iowa City
| | - Lane Strathearn
- Center for Disabilities and Development, University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Iowa City,Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City
| | - Buyun Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Matthew O’Brien
- Center for Disabilities and Development, University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Iowa City
| | - Todd G. Kopelman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City
| | - Jing Zhu
- College of Education, University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Linda G. Snetselaar
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Wei Bao
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City
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22
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Höfer J, Bachmann C, Kamp-Becker I, Poustka L, Roessner V, Stroth S, Wolff N, Hoffmann F. Willingness to try and lifetime use of complementary and alternative medicine in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder in Germany: A survey of parents. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 23:1865-1870. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361318823545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Regardless of their limited evidence and potential adverse effects, use of complementary and alternative medicine is common in children with autism spectrum disorder. Nevertheless, data on complementary and alternative medicine use in children with autism spectrum disorder in Germany are lacking. Therefore, a questionnaire survey on the use of complementary and alternative medicine was distributed to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder from three academic autism spectrum disorder outpatient clinics in Germany. Of 211 respondents, 46% stated that their child currently used or had ever used some form of complementary and alternative medicine in their life. The complementary and alternative medicine modalities most frequently used were manipulative and body-based methods (e.g. craniosacral therapy). And 18% of caregivers expressed willingness to try complementary and alternative medicine treatments for their child with autism spectrum disorder in the future, with mind–body interventions predominating. Health professionals should be aware of the considerable complementary and alternative medicine use prevalence among children with autism spectrum disorder and offer parents information about its effectiveness and potential side effects.
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Lindly O, Thorburn S, Zuckerman K. Use and Nondisclosure of Complementary Health Approaches Among US Children with Developmental Disabilities. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2018; 39:217-227. [PMID: 29570567 PMCID: PMC5868424 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000000536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many US children use complementary health approaches (CHAs), including some modalities that may be ineffective, unsafe, and/or costly. Yet, little is known about the prevalence and correlates of CHA use among children with developmental disabilities (DDs), as well as parent nondisclosure of CHAs used for children with DDs to health care providers. We, therefore, aimed to profile the use and nondisclosure of CHAs among US children with DDs. METHODS We analyzed data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey, which included the most recent Child Complementary and Alternative Medicine Supplement. The study sample was comprised of 2141 children with DDs aged 4 to 17 years. RESULTS Nearly one-quarter (23%) of US children with DDs used CHAs. Among those with a personal health provider, 42% of parents did not disclose some or all CHAs used to the child's provider. The adjusted odds ratios of using CHAs were greater among those with female sex, higher household income, residences not in the South, difficulty accessing care, or comorbid conditions. CHA was most commonly used because "it is natural." Nondisclosure was associated with female sex, older age, having no functional limitations, less conventional services use, and use of fewer CHAs. The most common reason for nondisclosure was that the child's provider did not ask. CONCLUSION Complementary health approach use is prevalent among US children with DDs, and nondisclosure is likely among those who use CHAs. Future intervention targeting education and communication about CHAs for parents of children with DDs and their health care providers may promote disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Lindly
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, 125 Nashua Street, Boston, MA 02114
- Divison of General Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, 707 SW Gaines Road, Portland, OR 97239
| | - Sheryl Thorburn
- School of Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, Oregon State University, 410 Waldo Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331
| | - Katharine Zuckerman
- Divison of General Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, 707 SW Gaines Road, Portland, OR 97239
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24
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Olliac B, Crespin G, Laznik MC, Cherif Idrissi El Ganouni O, Sarradet JL, Bauby C, Dandres AM, Ruiz E, Bursztejn C, Xavier J, Falissard B, Bodeau N, Cohen D, Saint-Georges C. Infant and dyadic assessment in early community-based screening for autism spectrum disorder with the PREAUT grid. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188831. [PMID: 29216234 PMCID: PMC5720624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The need for early treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) necessitates early screening. Very few tools have been prospectively tested with infants of less than 12 months of age. The PREAUT grid is based on dyadic assessment through interaction and shared emotion and showed good metrics for predicting ASD in very-high-risk infants with West syndrome. Methods We assessed the ability of the PREAUT grid to predict ASD in low-risk individuals by prospectively following and screening 12,179 infants with the PREAUT grid at four (PREAUT-4) and nine (PREAUT-9) months of age. A sample of 4,835 toddlers completed the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) at 24 months (CHAT-24) of age. Children who were positive at one screening (N = 100) were proposed a clinical assessment (including the Children Autism Rating Scale, a Developmental Quotient, and an ICD-10-based clinical diagnosis if appropriate) in the third year of life. A randomly selected sample of 1,100 individuals who were negative at all screenings was followed by the PMI team from three to five years of age to identify prospective false negative cases. The clinical outcome was available for 45% (N = 45) of positive children and 52.6% (N = 579) of negative children. Results Of the 100 children who screened positive, 45 received a diagnosis at follow-up. Among those receiving a diagnosis, 22 were healthy, 10 were diagnosed with ASD, seven with intellectual disability (ID), and six had another developmental disorder. Thus, 50% of infants positive at one screening subsequently received a neurodevelopmental diagnosis. The PREAUT grid scores were significantly associated with medium and high ASD risk status on the CHAT at 24 months (odds ratio of 12.1 (95%CI: 3.0–36.8), p < 0.001, at four months and 38.1 (95%CI: 3.65–220.3), p < 0.001, at nine months). Sensitivity (Se), specificity, negative predictive values, and positive predictive values (PPVs) for PREAUT at four or nine months, and CHAT at 24 months, were similar [PREAUT-4: Se = 16.0 to 20.6%, PPV = 25.4 to 26.3%; PREAUT-9: Se = 30.5 to 41.2%, PPV = 20.2 to 36.4%; and CHAT-24: Se = 33.9 to 41.5%, PPV = 27.3 to 25.9%]. The repeated use of the screening instruments increased the Se but not PPV estimates [PREAUT and CHAT combined: Se = 67.9 to 77.7%, PPV = 19.0 to 28.0%]. Conclusions The PREAUT grid can contribute to very early detection of ASD and its combination with the CHAT may improve the early diagnosis of ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertrand Olliac
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Esquirol, Limoges, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité Mixte de Recherche 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France
| | - Graciela Crespin
- PREAUT Association Programme de Recherche et d’Etudes sur l’Autisme, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Christine Laznik
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Association Santé Mentale du 13ème, Paris, France
| | | | - Jean-Louis Sarradet
- PREAUT Association Programme de Recherche et d’Etudes sur l’Autisme, Paris, France
| | - Colette Bauby
- PREAUT Association Programme de Recherche et d’Etudes sur l’Autisme, Paris, France
- PMI Center (Center for Protection of Mother and Infant), Paris, France
| | - Anne-Marie Dandres
- PREAUT Association Programme de Recherche et d’Etudes sur l’Autisme, Paris, France
- PMI Center (Center for Protection of Mother and Infant), Paris, France
| | - Emeline Ruiz
- PREAUT Association Programme de Recherche et d’Etudes sur l’Autisme, Paris, France
| | - Claude Bursztejn
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean Xavier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
- ISIR, CNRS, UMR 7222, UMPC, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Falissard
- INSERM U669, Université Paris-Sud and Université Paris-Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Bodeau
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - David Cohen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
- ISIR, CNRS, UMR 7222, UMPC, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Saint-Georges
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
- ISIR, CNRS, UMR 7222, UMPC, Paris, France
- Association CEREP-PHYMENTIN, Paris, France
- * E-mail:
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25
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Piwowarczyk A, Horvath A, Łukasik J, Pisula E, Szajewska H. Gluten- and casein-free diet and autism spectrum disorders in children: a systematic review. Eur J Nutr 2017; 57:433-440. [PMID: 28612113 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-017-1483-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Effective treatments for core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are lacking. We systematically updated evidence on the effectiveness of a gluten-free and casein-free (GFCF) diet as a treatment for ASD in children. METHODS The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases were searched up until August 2016, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs); additional references were obtained from reviewed articles. RESULTS Six RCTs (214 participants) were included. With few exceptions, there were no statistically significant differences in autism spectrum disorder core symptoms between groups, as measured by standardized scales. One trial found that compared with the control group, in the GFCF diet group there were significant improvements in the scores for the 'communication' subdomain of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule and for the 'social interaction' subdomain of the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale. Another trial found significant differences between groups in the post-intervention scores for the 'autistic traits', 'communication', and 'social contact' subdomains of a standardized Danish scheme. The remaining differences, if present, referred to parent-based assessment tools or other developmental/ASD-related features. No adverse events associated with a GFCF diet were reported. CONCLUSIONS Overall, there is little evidence that a GFCF diet is beneficial for the symptoms of ASD in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Piwowarczyk
- Department of Paediatrics with Clinical Decisions Unit, The Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 63a, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrea Horvath
- Department of Paediatrics, The Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 63a, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Jan Łukasik
- Department of Paediatrics, The Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 63a, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Pisula
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology, University of Warsaw, Stawki 5/7, 00-183, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Hania Szajewska
- Department of Paediatrics, The Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 63a, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland
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26
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Autism in Southeast Europe: A Survey of Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:2314-2325. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3145-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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27
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Butwicka A, Lichtenstein P, Frisén L, Almqvist C, Larsson H, Ludvigsson JF. Celiac Disease Is Associated with Childhood Psychiatric Disorders: A Population-Based Study. The journal The Journal of Pediatrics 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.01.043 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2014.09.347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Butwicka A, Lichtenstein P, Frisén L, Almqvist C, Larsson H, Ludvigsson JF. Celiac Disease Is Associated with Childhood Psychiatric Disorders: A Population-Based Study. J Pediatr 2017; 184:87-93.e1. [PMID: 28283256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the risk of future childhood psychiatric disorders in celiac disease, assess the association between previous psychiatric disorders and celiac disease in children, and investigate the risk of childhood psychiatric disorders in siblings of celiac disease probands. STUDY DESIGN This was a nationwide registry-based matched cohort study in Sweden with 10 903 children (aged <18 years) with celiac disease and 12 710 of their siblings. We assessed the risk of childhood psychiatric disorders (any psychiatric disorder, psychotic disorder, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, eating disorder, psychoactive substance misuse, behavioral disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], autism spectrum disorder [ASD], and intellectual disability). HRs of future psychiatric disorders in children with celiac disease and their siblings was estimated by Cox regression. The association between previous diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder and current celiac disease was assessed using logistic regression. RESULTS Compared with the general population, children with celiac disease had a 1.4-fold greater risk of future psychiatric disorders. Childhood celiac disease was identified as a risk factor for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, behavioral disorders, ADHD, ASD, and intellectual disability. In addition, a previous diagnosis of a mood, eating, or behavioral disorder was more common before the diagnosis of celiac disease. In contrast, siblings of celiac disease probands were at no increased risk of any of the investigated psychiatric disorders. CONCLUSIONS Children with celiac disease are at increased risk for most psychiatric disorders, apparently owing to the biological and/or psychological effects of celiac disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Butwicka
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Child Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Paul Lichtenstein
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise Frisén
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Research Center, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catarina Almqvist
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Lung and Allergy Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Larsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Jonas F Ludvigsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Pediatrics, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY
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29
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Dalton NR, Chandler S, Turner C, Charman T, Pickles A, Simonoff E, Baird G. Measurement of urine indolylacroylglycine is not useful in the diagnosis or dietary management of autism. Autism Res 2016; 10:408-413. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.1688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Neil R. Dalton
- WellChild Laboratory; Evelina London Children's Hospital & King's College London; London UK
| | - Susie Chandler
- Paediatric Neurosciences; Newcomen Centre, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust; London UK
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience; King's College London; London UK
| | - Charles Turner
- WellChild Laboratory; Evelina London Children's Hospital & King's College London; London UK
| | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience; King's College London; London UK
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience; King's College London; London UK
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience; King's College London; London UK
| | - Gillian Baird
- Paediatric Neurosciences; Newcomen Centre, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust; London UK
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30
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Fletcher-Watson S, Apicella F, Auyeung B, Beranova S, Bonnet-Brilhault F, Canal-Bedia R, Charman T, Chericoni N, Conceição IC, Davies K, Farroni T, Gomot M, Jones E, Kaale A, Kapica K, Kawa R, Kylliäinen A, Larsen K, Lefort-Besnard J, Malvy J, Manso de Dios S, Markovska-Simoska S, Millo I, Miranda N, Pasco G, Pisula E, Raleva M, Rogé B, Salomone E, Schjolberg S, Tomalski P, Vicente AM, Yirmiya N. Attitudes of the autism community to early autism research. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 21:61-74. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361315626577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Investigation into the earliest signs of autism in infants has become a significant sub-field of autism research. This work invokes specific ethical concerns such as use of ‘at-risk’ language, communicating study findings to parents and the future perspective of enrolled infants when they reach adulthood. This study aimed to ground this research field in an understanding of the perspectives of members of the autism community. Following focus groups to identify topics, an online survey was distributed to autistic adults, parents of children with autism and practitioners in health and education settings across 11 European countries. Survey respondents (n = 2317) were positively disposed towards early autism research, and there was significant overlap in their priorities for the field and preferred language to describe infant research participants. However, there were also differences including overall less favourable endorsement of early autism research by autistic adults relative to other groups and a dislike of the phrase ‘at-risk’ to describe infant participants, in all groups except healthcare practitioners. The findings overall indicate that the autism community in Europe is supportive of early autism research. Researchers should endeavour to maintain this by continuing to take community perspectives into account.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Inês C Conceição
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Portugal
| | | | | | - Marie Gomot
- Université François-Rabelais de Tours, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Natercia Miranda
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Portugal
| | | | | | | | - Bernadette Rogé
- Université Jean Jaurès Toulouse, Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), France
| | | | | | | | - Astrid M Vicente
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Portugal
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Höfer J, Hoffmann F, Bachmann C. Use of complementary and alternative medicine in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 21:387-402. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361316646559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite limited evidence, complementary and alternative medicine treatments are popular in autism spectrum disorder. The aim of this review was to summarize the available evidence on complementary and alternative medicine use frequency in autism spectrum disorder. A systematic search of three electronic databases was performed. All research studies in English or German reporting data on the frequency of complementary and alternative medicine use in individuals with autism spectrum disorder were included. Two independent reviewers searched the literature, extracted information on study design and results, and assessed study quality using an established quality assessment tool. Twenty studies with a total of 9540 participants were included. The prevalence of any complementary and alternative medicine use ranged from 28% to 95% (median: 54%). Special diets or dietary supplements (including vitamins) were the most frequent complementary and alternative medicine treatments, ranking first in 75% of studies. There was some evidence for a higher prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine use in autism spectrum disorder compared to other psychiatric disorders and the general population. Approximately half of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder use complementary and alternative medicine. Doctors should be aware of this and should discuss complementary and alternative medicine use with patients and their carers, especially as the evidence is mixed and some complementary and alternative medicine treatments are potentially harmful.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christian Bachmann
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, UK
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Salomone E, Charman T, McConachie H, Warreyn P. Child's verbal ability and gender are associated with age at diagnosis in a sample of young children with ASD in Europe. Child Care Health Dev 2016; 42:141-5. [PMID: 26016520 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder can in some cases be reliably diagnosed by age 2 years, but in community settings, the mean age at diagnosis is often considerably higher. Later diagnosis has been found to be associated with lower symptom severity, lower parental socioeconomic status and fewer parental concerns. Gender differences in age at diagnosis have been examined, with mixed evidence. METHODS We examined the association of child's verbal ability and gender, and parental education, with age at diagnosis in a large sample of young children with autism spectrum disorder in 18 European countries (n = 1410). RESULTS There was considerable variation in age at diagnosis across countries. Children with better communication skills were diagnosed significantly later than non-verbal and minimally verbal children. There was also a significant interaction of gender with verbal ability on age at diagnosis, in that female children with complex phrase speech were diagnosed later than male children with the same level of verbal ability. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the need to implement public awareness initiatives and training for professionals to promote early detection and, consequently, early intervention for autism spectrum disorder in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Salomone
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - T Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - H McConachie
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - P Warreyn
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Olsson NC, Tammimies K, Bölte S. Manualized social skills group training for children and adolescents with higher functioning autism spectrum disorder: protocol of a naturalistic multicenter, randomized controlled trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.3402/tdp.v3.29825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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34
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Salomone E, Beranová Š, Bonnet-Brilhault F, Briciet Lauritsen M, Budisteanu M, Buitelaar J, Canal-Bedia R, Felhosi G, Fletcher-Watson S, Freitag C, Fuentes J, Gallagher L, Garcia Primo P, Gliga F, Gomot M, Green J, Heimann M, Jónsdóttir SL, Kaale A, Kawa R, Kylliainen A, Lemcke S, Markovska-Simoska S, Marschik PB, McConachie H, Moilanen I, Muratori F, Narzisi A, Noterdaeme M, Oliveira G, Oosterling I, Pijl M, Pop-Jordanova N, Poustka L, Roeyers H, Rogé B, Sinzig J, Vicente A, Warreyn P, Charman T. Use of early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorder across Europe. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2015; 20:233-49. [PMID: 25916866 DOI: 10.1177/1362361315577218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about use of early interventions for autism spectrum disorder in Europe. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder aged 7 years or younger (N = 1680) were recruited through parent organisations in 18 European countries and completed an online survey about the interventions their child received. There was considerable variation in use of interventions, and in some countries more than 20% of children received no intervention at all. The most frequently reported interventions were speech and language therapy (64%) and behavioural, developmental and relationship-based interventions (55%). In some parts of Europe, use of behavioural, developmental and relationship-based interventions was associated with higher parental educational level and time passed since diagnosis, rather than with child characteristics. These findings highlight the need to monitor use of intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder in Europe in order to contrast inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Patricia Garcia Primo
- Rare Diseases Research Institute (IIER) of the National Institute of Health of Spain (IIER-NIH Carlos III), Spain
| | | | - Marie Gomot
- Université François Rabelais de Tours, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Irma Moilanen
- Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Astrid Vicente
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Portugal
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