Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of related developmental disabilities, caused by a problem with the brain, that affect a child's behavior, social, and communication skills. ASDs include autistic disorder, "pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified" (PDD-NOS) and Asperger Syndrome.
New data suggests that approximately 1 in 110 children have an ASD*. There is currently no cure for ASDs, however, children with an ASD can progress developmentally and learn new skills. The AAP strongly believes in the importance of early and continuous surveillance and screening for ASD to ensure that children are identified and receive access to services as early as possible. The sooner an ASD is identified, the sooner an intervention program can start.
Scientific understanding of the cause of autism is far from complete. The AAP strongly supports ongoing studies funded through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Institutes of Health that are trying to determine factors in our modern environment that may be responsible for autism.
Dr Paul Carbone comes on the show to discuss Autism Awareness Month and where Parents of Autistic children can get the help they need.
Guest Info
Dr. Paul Carbone is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Utah. As a general pediatrician, Dr. Carbone’s clinical interests are in the primary care of children with disabilities with a particular emphasis on children with autism spectrum disorders. He currently serves as a pediatrician at the Neurobehavioral HOME Program, a clinic in Salt Lake City that provides primary and specialty care for nearly 800 individuals with developmental disabilities. Dr. Carbone also is part of an interdisciplinary team at the Utah Department of Health that provides developmental evaluations and assists in the long-term management of children with special health care needs. He has spoken at local and national conferences on the subject of autism and has been involved in clinical research on the care of the children with autism spectrum disorders. He is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Autism Subcommittee. He obtained his medical degree from Chicago Medical School at the Rosalind Franklin School of Medicine and completed his pediatric residency training at the University of California at San Diego.
Autism and The Medical Home - How To Get the Most Out of Your Primary Care Provider
