Family Resources

About Autism
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others.

Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause for autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.

In February 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report. The report, which looked at a sample of 8-year olds in 2000 and 2002, concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 150 American children, and almost 1 in 94 boys.

BREAKING NEWS
The Centers of Disease Control (CDC) just announced the findings of the latest study for 2009.     

The CDC found that 1 in 91 American children are diagnosed with Autism.    THIS IS A SILENT EPIDEMIC!   Children are the future of America and we need to find out why this epidemic is on the rise.   The cause of Autism and Spectrum Disorders need to have a higher priority in America. 

Today, 1.5 million Americans are living with the effects of autism spectrum disorder. A national ASD source estimates that the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism ranges from $3.5 million to $5 million, and that the United States is facing almost $90 billion annually in costs for autism (this figure includes research, insurance costs and non-covered expenses, Medicaid waivers for autism, educational spending, housing, transportation, employment, in addition to related therapeutic services and caregiver costs).

Know the Signs: Early Identification Can Change Lives
Autism is treatable. Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes.

If you are a Nonprofit Organization (501C3) that helps children, families, Veterans, or disaster victims, go to www.StargateWorldwide.com to see about how your organization can host a major fundraiser in your community with our help, at no cost to your organization.

Copyright © 2010

American Autism Foundation, Inc.
    Post Office Box 2285
    Tarpon Springs, Florida USA 34689

Here are some signs to look for in your children:

1. •Lack of or delay in spoken language
   

2. •Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)
   

3. •Little or no eye contact
   

4. •Lack of interest in peer relationships
   

5. •Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
   

6. •Persistent fixation on parts of objects
   

There is no known single cause for autism, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism versus neuro-typical children. Researchers are investigating a number of theories, including the link between heredity, genetics and medical problems.

In many families, there appears to be a pattern of autism or related disabilities, further supporting a genetic basis to the disorder. While no one gene has been identified as causing autism, researchers are searching for irregular segments of genetic code that children with autism may have inherited. It also appears that some children are born with a susceptibility to autism, but researchers have not yet identified a single "trigger" that causes autism to develop. Other researchers are investigating the possibility that under certain conditions, a cluster of unstable genes may interfere with brain development, resulting in autism. Still other researchers are investigating problems during pregnancy or delivery as well as environmental factors, such as viral infections, metabolic imbalances, and exposure to environmental chemicals.

Genetic Vulnerability
Autism tends to occur more frequently than expected among individuals who have certain medical conditions, including Fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome, and untreated phenylketonuria (PKU). Some harmful substances ingested during pregnancy also have been associated with an increased risk of autism. Read more about related conditions.

Environmental Factors
Research indicates that other factors besides the genetic component are contributing to the rise in increasing occurrences of ASD, such as environmental toxins (e.g., heavy metals such as mercury), which are more prevalent in our current environment than in the past. Those with ASD (or those who are at risk) may be especially vulnerable, as their ability to metabolize and detoxify these exposures can be compromised. - from the ASA website.

Autism Resources

Autism Digest

Nowhere else is so much actionable information on ASD accessible in one spot! The Autism Asperger’s Digest brims with effective, practical solutions on behavior, sensory, social and daily living skills, language/communication, alternative therapies, education and more. Six, 52-page issues per year. In publication since 1999. Visit www.autismdigest.com or call 800.489.0727.

The Autism File

is the longest running international autism magazine and has been published in Europe for over 10 years. In September 2008, The Autism File expanded to North America with a US/ Canada edition that was released for distribution to 2000 major bookstores in the United States and Canada, as well as made available by subscription. The journal covers the many diverse aspects of autism from childhood through adulthood, including biomedical issues, educational interventions and therapies, and advocacy and practical advice for daily life, in order to help children and families touched by autism worldwide. The Autism Files Scientific and Editorial Advisory Boards are made up of leading autism experts and advocates from around the world. For more information or to subscribe, go to www.autismfile.com.

Autism Research Institute (ARI)

A non-profit organization founded in 1967 by Dr. Bernard Rimland which serves as the hub of a world-wide network of parents and professionals concerned with autism. ARI conducts and sponsors "research that makes a difference" in finding the causes and developing treatments for autism. Projects include Defeat Autism Now! (DAN!) bringing together researchers to develop state-of-the-art biological interventions, the DAN! Conferences, DAN! Think Tanks, Research Grants, DAN! Doctors List, and also publishes The Autism Research Review International newsletter.

Bio-Botanical Research

Bio-Botanical Research specializes in botanical formulations for balancing intestinal ecology and for systemic cleansing. Biocidin and Olivirex formulas have been noted in books by Dr. William Shaw, Ph. D, of Great Plains Laboratories, by Dr. Byron Strain, M.D. of the Britni Foundation, and have been widely used by health professionals. Call 831.768.9529 for more information, or visit online at www.biobotanicalresearch.com.

Healing Thresholds   NEW

www.HealingThresholds.com is a free Web site dedicated to healing the lives of families touched by autism. We provide daily updates of autism therapy research and autism therapy news. We invite you to subscribe to our free weekly Autism Therapy eBrief. If your child has just been diagnosed with autism or you suspect your child has autism, we suggest you read "A New Diagnosis of Autism".

Official Government Center for Disease Control Autism Site

Government site http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html for future reference.

CDC.gov (www.cdc.gov) is your online source for credible health information and is the official Web site of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC is committed to achieving true improvements in people’s health. CDC applies research and findings to improve people’s daily lives and responds to health emergencies—something that distinguishes CDC from its peer agencies. Working with states and other partners, CDC provides a system of health surveillance to monitor and prevent disease outbreaks (including bioterrorism), implement disease prevention strategies, and maintain national health statistics. CDC also guards against international disease transmission, with personnel stationed in more than 25 foreign countries.

Dynamic Listening Systems - We believe in treating causes, not symptoms
The premier provider of brain-based sensory processing technology through listening therapy. Contact one of our worldwide practitioners to make sustained, positive changes in your child’s well being. For a center near you or for training information please call 877.320.5502. Please visit http://centerforinnerchange.com/.

Health Research Institute and Pfeiffer Treatment Center
Is a leader in the research and treatment of biochemical imbalances. A not-for-profit facility our mission is to increase an individual’s ability to lead a productive and rewarding life by focusing on the research, education and nutritional treatment of biochemical imbalances. through listening therapy. Contact one of our worldwide practitioners to make sustained, positive changes in your child’s well being. For a center near you or for training information please call 877.320.5502. Please visit http://hriptc.org/

International Child Development Resource Center
Welcome to a place where you and your family can find answers and hope for your child with a developmental disorder. A place where traditional science and medicine is integrated with recently developed and recognized treatments and therapies. A place where the most advanced research in developmental disorders is a daily event. A place where parents, professionals and physicians will be educated and trained to meet children at their most immediate point of need. The place is the International Child Development Resource Center. www.icdrc.org/  

Medical Veritas International
Medical Veritas International recognizes that medical modalities promoted by public health departments and authorities are often compromised by conflicts of interest with pharmaceutical companies and other political and personal agendas. Medical Veritas: The Journal of Medical Truth provides scientific information that is not readily available in other medical journals. Unlike those journals we do not accept advertising nor pharmaceutical influenced manuscripts. www.medicalveritas.com/

Pathways Medical Advocates
Integrative medical team led by pediatrician John Hicks, MD. Specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Immune System, Detoxification, and Gastro Intestinal System through diet, supplements and homeopathy. Dr. Hicks develops in collaboration with his patients a customized treatment plan. Offices in 6 states and Web Cast appointments available. To learn more please visit www.pathwaysmed.com.

  Lemon Tree is committed to advancing the educational, social, and emotional development of children with language-based learning differences. Our goal is to help our students identify their innate strengths as learners, so that ultimately, they may reach their intended educational potential. Check out their website www.lemontreecenter.com  

ASGO was founded in 1996 by a group of volunteer parents to better assist families of children and adults with autism in the Central Florida area.  The mission or goal of the ASGO is that all individuals within the autism spectrum will be provided a lifetime network of opportunities to become fully accepted, included, and actively participating members of our community, through family support, education, and advocacy, and public awareness.

We are primarily a volunteer organization.  Most of the volunteers are parents that understand what it is like to live with autism on a daily basis.  We do not know all of the answers and most of us are not professionals in the field.  However, we are here to be of support to you and your family.

ASGO is a not for profit 501(c) (3) organization.  Our funds for dissemination of information, workshops, conference grants, social events, and more are derived from fund raising, private donations, ticket sales to events, and dues.

We do not endorse or dismiss any specific treatment, professional, and/or services.  We are a source of information and support to families of children and adults with autism.  We offer social opportunities for individuals with autism to be included in the community.  We believe that all children with autism are their own unique person and should be treated as such.

Very soon, every State will be represented on this site for families to get current help information and contacts for:

1. •Spectrum Disorder Certified Doctors
   

2. •Certified Clinics
   

3. •Other Health Professionals and Therapy Centers
   

4. •Horse therapy and animal therapy Centers
   

5. •Autism and Spectrum Disorder Support Groups - Very Important part for every family
   

6. •
   

For only $500 per year, we will advertise your services to the Autism community worldwide on this and other websites.  No other charges apply and you may update your information at any time.   No drug companies please.   All advertising and site linking must be approved by the American Autism Foundation Inc.   If you do not feel you got your monies worth the first year, we will advertise at our nationwide events and on the websites free the following year.