We missed one for the 2024 year end summary: Proof of the importance of genetic testing in autism

It happens every year – this one belonged in the 2024 year end highlights but was published late in the year. Researchers at UCSD, UCLA and CHLA followed families with autism whose genetic test revealed a rare variant. Did it make a difference in care? Understanding? Referrals? If you are in need of a genetic test, here are some things to know: https://www.alliancegenda.org/genetic-testing

Reference here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1098360024002673

Dealing with an ER visit

This week, special correspondent Mia Kotikovski discusses challenges in getting emergency care for those with autism, what doctors and hospitals can do to ease the stressors associated with places like the ER. This is a huge issue for families as many “simple” ER visits for their autistic family members can cause such stress it provokes severe reactions, especially in those with sensory issues, intellectual disability or those who cannot express their pain.

https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/137/Supplement_2/S205/34011/Toward-Practice-Advancement-in-Emergency-Care-for

Culturally sensitive care with Mia Kotikovski

On this week’s podcast, Mia Kotivkoski, founder of her own 5013c and recent graduate of Stony Brook University, reviews why understanding cultural and contextual factors influence not just an autism diagnosis but general health and outcomes of a broad group of people. They include immigrants, racial and ethnic differences, and socio-economic factors. What can be done? Listen to this week’s podcast to learn more.

https://www.aacap.org/App_Themes/AACAP/Docs/resource_centers/cultural_diversity/competency_curriculum%20_cap_training/cases_supporting_materials/clinics/Bernier-psychopathology_families_and_culture-autism.pdf

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1750946718300758?via%3Dihub

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258193289_The_Impact_of_Culture_on_Autism_Diagnosis_and_Treatment_Considerations_for_Counselors_and_Other_Professionals

https://www.maactearly.org/uploads/9/2/2/3/9223642/considering_culture_facilitatorguide_final_102116.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7614360

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-are-there-so-few-autism-specialists