Gastrointestinal Symptoms...Evidence-based Guidelines? What Do We Do and Who Do We Listen To?

January 2010, consensus guidelines are documented by The American Academy of Pediatrics in its publication of "Recommendations for Evaluation and Treatment of Common Gastrointestinal Problems in Children with ASD".



This publication is very important -



1) Masses of information flood the internet, and without 'evidence-based' guidelines for the evaluation of gastrointestinal symptoms for ASD children, who range from 9% to 70% or higher in presentation of GI symptoms (abdominal pain, constipation, diarreah and reflux), things can become very complicated. And, although concensus guidelines for management of these common GI symptoms have been developed for the mainstream pediatric population, few if any publications address modification in the diagnostic evaluation of the unique ASD population with disabilities such as impaired language skills.



2) The publication endorses the need for 'EDUCATION' - Educating Parents and Caregivers of children with ASD to enhance their knowledge, their ability to understand, identify and react to the 'Red Flags' related to GI symptoms. Education is prevention and ultimately will support the health and development of these kiddos.


View the full article on consensus recommendations go to:
Vist http://www.pediatrics.org/cgi/cont/full/125Supplement_1/S19

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Somali Parents on Autism Support in Minnesota

One of the instances with real life roots where the level of support from a community simply did not meet the expectations of Somali Parents in Minnesota where Autism strikes 1 in every 28 Somali children. Autism is devasting to families. Autism as a subject, brings to mind a network of people seeking people to provide information revelant to the common goal of knowledge and support. Such was not the experience relayed by Somali Parents at the Minnesota Autism Forum.
See this article by Nancy Hokkanen for details. http://www.ageofautism.com/2008/11/by-nancy-hokkan.html