Monthly News | April 2020

Greetings!

Today is World Autism Awareness Day, and in these uncertain times, we remain as committed as ever to advancing emerging research while providing the latest science-based information for people of all ages on the autism spectrum. With so much happening, many may have missed the Centers for Disease Control's announcement last month that autism affects 1 in 54 individuals under 21 living in the U.S. This announcement once again underscores the urgent need to fund biological research on the cause of autism and potential treatments for people on the spectrum.

For now, we will focus on streaming educational events, providing free tools, and funding the studies that must go on when the challenges of COVID-19 pass in the months to come.

Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D.
Executive Director
News
Autism prevalence rises to 1 in 54
The CDC announced last month that autism prevalence has increased by nearly 10 percent, to 1 in 54. That’s a 10% increase in prevalence from the previous rate of 1 in 59.
COVID-19 resources and coping stories
Coping with COVID-19: ARI's live webinars, online tools help families cope
ARI has created a resource page for families, researchers, and practitioners.

• Free presentations offering evidence-based strategies to manage at home during extended school closures
• Social stories and short videos on hygiene and medical procedures
• Physician resources for managing patients diagnosed with autism
Life At Home: Share your stories of coping during the COVID-19 pandemic
Each year, we ask families to share photos during Autism Awareness Month. In this unprecedented time, we invite you to share your snapshots and stories about life at home. What strategies have you discovered for dealing with the disruption? What has been a struggle and what's going well?
Share for a chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift card in our drawing May 1.
UPCOMING WEBINARS
Free Webinar 4/9:
Emotional Support for Families during COVID-19

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The uncertainty and sudden changes caused by COVID-19 can be difficult for families with autism. Tune in for supportive tips, mindfulness techniques, and positive ideas for coping.
Free Webinar 4/15:
Research finds GI issues coincide with problem behaviors in ASD
Learn about the evidence suggesting that behavior problems in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can be an indication of gastrointestinal (GI) distress.

Research Updates
Editorial: The relationship between Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome & autism
Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes have recently received much attention among members of the autism community. This is due, in large part, to the research conducted by Dr. Emily Casanova of the Department of Biomedical Sciences at University of South Carolina. ARI funded a portion of her research.
Drug may reduce ASD symptoms in young children by altering the GABA/glutamate ratio in the brain
A prescription drug used to treat edema (fluid buildup in the body) appears to reduce some symptoms of ASD in young children by altering the balance between the neurotransmitters GABA and glutamate, according to a new study by researchers in China and the United Kingdom.
Participate in Research: Screening ASD Risk in Newborns With a Drop of Blood
Can a new test of 1000 chemicals in a dried blood spot help to predict the future risk of autism? Researchers are seeking participants ages 3-10 for phase II of a newborn risk study.
Making a Difference in 2020 and Beyond
Research is the Key to the Future 
We're moving research forward
When you support us you send a message that you care about ARI's independent legacy, and value objective research conducted free of influence. We know you hear from many worthy charities—thanks for keeping ARI on your list.
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