Obesity Rates in Children with Autism, Overcoming Food Selectivity, Next Steps Workshops, and more...
Autism Dispatch
News from the Center for Autism Research at CHOP
February 21, 2019
New CAR research finds children with ASD at greater risk for obesity
In this Issue:
Obesity and ASD, and Overcoming Food Selectivity
Childhood obesity continues to be a concern for parents and healthcare providers alike. Nearly 19% of children in the U.S. aged 2 to 18 years old are overweight or obese. New research finds even higher rates in autistic children.
In this issue you'll find
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CAR research finds higher rates of overweight and obesity in children with ASD.
Susan Levy, MD, MPH, Medical Director at CAR, examined the rates of overweight/obesity, finding that for autistic children, the risk of being overweight or obese was 1.57 times higher than controls in the general population, and 1.38 times higher than children with developmental delays.
CAR psychologist, Dr. Emily Kuschner, developed an intervention to help children with ASD incorporate food variety into their diets.
From Picky to Adventurous Eater
Food selectivity, or picky eating, can be the source of significant difficulties for autistic individuals and their families. Over time, food selectivity can impede a child's development and may lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight concerns, and eventual health problems. Food selectivity can also take a severe toll on a family's stress level over time.
Looking for a fun way to support the Philadelphia Eagles and autism research? Team up to walk, run or ride with Children's Hospital of Philadelphia at the Eagles Autism Challenge! Click here to join our team!
You Can Help Us Learn More about ASD!
Advances in understanding autism and related disorders are only possible as a direct result of the participation of individuals and families. We have opportunities for all ages, and you do not need an autism diagnosis to participate.
Simply put - scientists cannot make real progress without your help. We need you! Learn about current studies
