Speech

Krishnaswami et al. Researchers at Vanderbilt University found that secretin, a medical treatment for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) that was popularized in the 1990s, is ineffective in the treatment of ASDs. Evidence from seven randomized controlled trials suggests that secretin does not effectively treat the symptoms of ASDs, which include language and communication impairment, symptom severity, and cognitive and social deficits. Furthermore, no study conducted has found significant improvement in terms of language, cognition, or autistic symptoms when compared with placebo. The Vanderbilt researchers conclude that secretin does not have clear benefit. Additionally, since there is significant evidence of lack of impact in treating ASDs, they believe that further secretin studies should not be conducted.

Researchers conducted a telephone survey to determine the rates of service use among young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) during their first few years after high school. Rates of service ranged from 9.1% for speech therapy to 41.9% for case management. 39.1% of youths with an ASD represented by the survey received no services. The adjusted odds of no service were higher among African American participants and those with low incomes. The adjusted odds of case management were lower among youths with high functional skills and those with low incomes. The researchers concluded that rates of service disengagement are high after exiting high school. Furthermore, due to the disparities by race and socioeconomic status indicate a need for targeted outreach and services.