FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AAoM is committed to advancing understanding, acceptance and support about (ASD) in Michigan
Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is deeply committed to advancing understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder
(ASD) in Michigan.
While we welcome national attention on autism and the need for continued research and resources, recent statements regarding a cause and treatments for autism do not reflect the consensus of the medical, scientific, and most autism advocacy communities.
“At this time, AAoM is not aware of any new studies that would support a causal association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and increased risk of autism in infants,”
said Dr. Nicole Hamp, a developmental behavioral pediatrician and AAoM’s Chief Health Officer.
She further explains,
“While past studies have indicated a modest association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders, these studies were limited by confounding factors such as maternal health, genetics, and indication for acetaminophen use.
A more recent population based study that controlled for these factors by analyzing matched full sibling pairs found no evidence of increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability with acetaminophen use.”
Additionally, when it comes to potential treatments, it is important to acknowledge that autism is truly a spectrum influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors.
Dr. Hamp stated,
“AAoM is not a professional medical society, and therefore we do not make any formal recommendations regarding medical treatments. However, as an advocacy organization, we do our best to disseminate important information and help to educate our stakeholders.
To that end, there is a small body of evidence to suggest that folinic acid treatment in a select group of patients with autism may lead to some improvements in symptoms.
However, it has not been endorsed by any of the professional medical societies qualified to recommend changes to clinical practice.”
Dr. Hamp additionally described that there are some side effects to consider.
She recommended that patients who are interested in discussing this treatment should consult their medical provider and added that there are ongoing clinical trials patients can learn more about at clinicaltrials.gov.
For families or individuals who are feeling confused or overwhelmed by what to make of the recent White House statement, please reach out to one of AAoM’s MiNavigators.
About The Autism Alliance of Michigan
The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is a 501(c)(3) organization and trusted ally and partner
for autistic individuals and their loved ones. AAoM’s mission is to lead efforts to raise
expectations and expand opportunities for people affected by autism across their lifespan. We
work to create a more accepting future for all people by cultivating a world rich in diverse
abilities, talents, and ideas.
For support and resource identification for autism related needs,
connect with our MiNavigator Program at:
https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/contact-minavigator/ or call us at : 877-463-2266 (AAoM).