Key Finding Re: Co-Morbidity of Autism + Epilepsy; Common Genetic Cause of Autism and Epilepsy Found; For Parents of Individuals With Autism--What Supports Are Available To Them And Where Are They?; Transitioning To Adulthood Tool Kit

"I do not suffer from autism, but I do suffer from the way you treat me."  Tyler Durdin

• Autism Speaks, in conjunction with Miami Children's Hospital, is reporting new research that shows mortality rate is increased in persons with autism who also have epilepsy. Data from the Journal of Child Neurology concluded that when epilepsy and autism occurred together, the mortality rates increased by more than 800%. Dr. Robert Tuchman, of Miami Children's Hospital, said "The study highlights the importance of early identification of epilepsy in children with autism and of autism in children with epilepsy." Dr. Clara Lajonchere, VP of Clinical Programs at Autism Speaks, also cautioned, "Sudden, unexpected or unexplained death in autism is often, but not always related to epilepsy, and we need to use caution when interpreting this data." Dr. Lajonchere added that the findings are important in understanding the risk factors that contribute to early death in individuals with autism.
• The CHUM Research Centre in Montreal reported they've identified a new gene that predisposes people to both autism and epilepsy. According to neurologist, Dr. Patrick Cossette, he reported "the results show for the first time the role of SYN 1 gene in autism, in addition to epilepsy, and strengthen the hypothesis that a deregulation of the function of the synapse because of this mutation is the cause of both diseases."
• Parents of children and adults who have autism face formidable challenges. These challenges include, but are not limited to, finding appropriate resources and supports, frustration due to financial hardship, difficulty in balancing work life with caregiving and feelings of isolation. So what are these parents to do? The good news is there are a multitude of services available if you know whom to contact (Studies have shown that most urban areas provide good access to services and supports). Depending on what state you live in, it's always good to start with that state's department that provides that information. In some states, it could be the county. However, there is also another good place to start. Contact the admission's office of the nearest service provider and/or agency that provides services to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. In my long experience in this profession, I've found admission's personnel exceedingly knowledgeable, and they can assist you in navigating through the bureaucracy. In addition, there are a number of advocacy groups that assist parents in finding appropriate services and supports. We've linked to many of those groups on our web site under "Advocacy" and "Resources 4 parents."

Medications Fall Short, Catch This New Film, Decoding Autism, Tool Kit, New Autism Center To Open

I want to take a moment to thank all those who visited the blog after its launch last week. The number of visits for the initial release was a pleasant surprise. Since the launch, we listed additional links to be able to serve you better. Again, thank you very much.

• In the current issue of Pediatrics, researchers reported that medications are of little help to most children with autism. Although many treatments for autism fall short, behavioral therapy continues to be the most effective.
• In last week's edition, we reported on several films that focused on autism. This month another film opened entitled, Wretches & Jabberers. It's a buddy/trip movie about two individuals who are trying to change public perceptions of autism. The director of the film is Gerardine Wurzburg, who directed the 1992 film, Educating Peter, a film about people with Down Syndrome.