The new Diagnostic and Statistical Manual – the DSM 5 – which psychologists use to diagnose autism, will be released this weekend. It collapses all subtypes of autism into one category called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It also changes the current three symptom domains into two: social communication impairment and restricted/repetitive behaviors.  Read about it

Jessica Hellings, MD and Andrea Witwer discuss the connection between autism and bipolar disorder.  Here is the article: http://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/2013/04/19/there-connection-between-autism-and-bipolar-disorder

Autism Speaks posted a new article listing the top 10 things we’ve learned since last Autism Awareness Month: http://www.autismspeaks.org/science/science-news/ten-important-things-we-know-about-autism-today-–-we-didn’t-know-year-ago

NPR interviews leading experts in Autism regarding the upcoming changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Listen to the interview here: http://www.kqed.org/a/forum/R201212040900

As the number of individuals with autism entering adulthood increases, innovative programs for adults with autism have become increasingly important. Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism (AFAA) has recently selected the winners of AFAA Applauds, a national initiative recognizing high-quality support programs for adults living with autism. Check out the 6 recognized programs here: http://www.autismspeaks.org/about-us/press-releases/six-organizations-us-recognized-innovative-high-quality-autism-programs

Research this month in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry investigated the controversial topic of recovery in autism by comparing “optimal outcome” individuals to those with high functioning autism and typical development. The optimal outcome group did not differ significantly from the typical development group on the study’s main measures. Importantly, the optimal outcome

Abnormal immune responses have been linked to autism. A new report shows elevated levels of dendritic immune cells in children with autism. The study links immune abnormality to regression and GI distress. Take a look: http://www.autismspeaks.org/science/science-news/immune-changes-linked-regression-gi-distress-repetitive-behaviors

A new study associates a three-fold increase in autism risk with exposure to traffic-related air pollution during pregnancy and the first year of life.  Check out the article here: http://archpsyc.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1393589  

A recent national study suggests that almost half of teens with autism are bullied – more than three times the rate of other students. This study underscores the need for more support for teens with autism, particularly in regular education settings which increased the risk for bullying.  Here is an article about bullying and teens