RESEARCH PROGRAMS
Research programs are dedicated to identifying the causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and to developing more effective approaches to their diagnosis, treatment and cure. The essential feature of autism – the feature that gives its name – is the atypical way in which autistic children relate to others. The ASDs can be among the most debilitating of all childhood neuropsychiatric disorders, with the potential to derail cognitive, emotional and behavioral development. These illnesses are much more common that previously believed, affecting as many as 1 in 150 children.
Fortunately, the advent of powerful new research techniques has brought us to a new era in which we can legitimately hope to identify and understand these genetic and environmental causes of ASDs. These discoveries are bringing us closer to designating truly effective treatments that will address the core symptoms of these disorders. The participation of families and individuals affected by autism is the necessary foundation for making these new discoveries.
Courtesy of Martha Stone, MS and David Steinman, MA, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
(212) 543-6705, autismresearch@childpsych.columbia.edu
www.childpsych.columbia.edu/brainimaging, www.newyorkautism.columbia.edu/
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