Here's Your Chance to Take Part in Research into Causes of Autism

Do you have a child with autism? Are you expecting another baby? If so, researchers are standing by to hear from you! An article in the Wall Street Journal includes an announcement of a new study, to be undertaken by researchers at Drexel University in Philadelphia. According to the article:

The study's goals are to identify early signs of autism and understand its possible causes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in 150 U.S. children have an autism spectrum disorder, which includes autism, Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental disorders. There is no known cure for autism, which is characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, and unusual behavior and interests, but therapy and medication can improve symptoms.

"By studying families who are already affected by autism, we feel we have the best chance at learning how genetics and environmental factors could work together to cause autism," said Craig Newschaffer, a department chair at the Drexel University School of Public Health in Philadelphia and the study's principal investigator.

The Earli (Early Autism Risk Longitudinal) Study is actually recruiting families to take part in ongoing research. The study's website includes information about research locations (so far only in MD, PA and CA), and details about what would be required from families taking part (home visits, clinic visits, parent diaries and testing for three years). According to the EARLI site, families will be compensated for time and travel.

What exactly do the researchers hope to accomplish with this project? They certainly have high hopes. According to EARLI's FAQs:

The purpose of this study is to learn what causes autism. ...This study will provide a unique opportunity for studying possible Autism Spectrum Disorder environmental risk factors and biomarkers during different developmental windows as well as an opportunity to investigate the interplay of genetic susceptibility and environmental exposure.

If one three-year study can achieve all that, more power to them!

Will you be volunteering to take part in the EARLI study? Share your thoughts!

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