Latest News
2017
July 10, 2017
ACL's Administration for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities recently awarded five-year grants to 42 University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs). The UCEDDs will receive a total of $22,974,000 a year to address issues, find solutions, and advance research in order to improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families.
June 7, 2017
Functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (fcMRI) scans may predict which high risk, 6 month old infants will develop autism by age 2 years.
June 1, 2017
In a twin study, researchers found that baby teeth from individuals with autism contain higher levels of lead and low levels of nutrients.
Friday, April 28, 2017
HHS recommits to supporting Americans living with autism and their families.
Wednesday, April 26, 2017
In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, I am highlighting NIMH’s efforts at improving understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developing effective interventions and supports for individuals with ASD.
Thursday, April 6, 2017
Based on U.S. Census data and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence estimates, over a half million youth with ASD will turn 18 over the next decade.
Sunday, April 2, 2017
On World Autism Awareness Day, we highlight the importance of addressing the causes and improving the treatments for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). We also recognize the importance of identifying ASDs early in a child's life and of understanding the obstacles faced by people living on the autism spectrum.
Thursday, March 30, 2017
On this World Autism Awareness Day, let us all play a part in changing attitudes towards persons with autism and in recognizing their rights as citizens, who, like everyone else, are entitled to claim those rights and make decisions for their lives in accordance with their own will and preferences.
February 21, 2017
For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), early diagnosis is critical to allow for possible interventions at a time when the brain is most amenable to change. But that’s been tough to implement for a simple reason: the symptoms of ASD, such as communication difficulties, social deficits, and repetitive behaviors, often do not show up until a child turns 2 or even 3 years old.
2016
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
It’s been nearly three months since Joshua Gordon took the reins as director of the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). In that time, Gordon has made it clear that one of his top priorities will be ‘circuit science’ — investigations into the clusters of neurons that underlie certain behaviors.
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Joshua Gordon, M.D, Ph.D., who was appointed as the Director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH ) in September 2016, has been appointed as the new Chair of Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee.
Friday, April 15, 2016
Children with autism, like people with all types of disabilities, need opportunities to grow and gain independence.
Friday, April 1, 2016
Every person deserves the chance to reach for their highest hopes and fulfill their greatest potential. On World Autism Awareness Day, we reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that belief is a reality for all those who live on the autism spectrum ‑‑ including 1 in 68 children. And we uphold our obligation to help make sure every man, woman, and child, regardless of ability or background, is accepted for who they are and able to lead a life free from discrimination and filled with opportunity.
Monday, March 21, 2016
The international community is now embarking on the challenge of realizing the ambitious and universal 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The equal participation and active involvement of persons with autism will be essential for achieving the inclusive societies envisioned by the Sustainable Development Goals
UN World Autism Awareness Event:
2015
HHS Announces Appointment of New Membership and New Chair for the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee [HTML version], (PDF – 109 KB)
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced the appointments of new and returning members to the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC), reauthorized under the Autism CARES Act. After an open call for nominations for members of the public to serve on the committee, Secretary of Health and Human Services, Sylvia M. Burwell, appointed this group of individuals to provide her with advice to advance research, strengthen services, and increase opportunities for people on the autism spectrum. Read more
Thursday, April 2, 2015
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today launched a Call to Action inviting businesses to make concrete commitments to employ persons with autism. Read more
Thursday, April 2, 2015
In this blog, IACC Chair Dr. Insel discusses some of the most recent research advances and initiatives that have taken place in the autism field. Read more
Thursday, April 2, 2015
On World Autism Awareness Day, our Nation recognizes all those around the globe who live on the autism spectrum. We celebrate the countless ways they strengthen our communities and enrich our world -- and we reaffirm their fundamental rights to participate fully in society, live with respect, and achieve their greatest potential. Read more