Research
Studies to Understand Medical Issues Associated with Autism
The Rochester site of the Autism Treatment Network (ATN) is directed by Drs. Susan Hyman and Tristram Smith. This network is funded by Autism Speaks and is the nation's first network of hospitals and physicians dedicated to bridging gaps between science and practice to improve treatment for individuals with Autism.
As part of the Combating Autism Act, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) funded the Autism Treatment Network to evaluate the nutritional status of children with Autism. Five Autism Treatment Network (ATN) sites are participating in this project that will collect extensive information on children with Autism and their dietary supplements.
Insomnia and other sleep problems occur in approximately 50-80% of children with ASD . Insomnia may lead to behavior problems during the day for the child and create stress for families. One factor that may contribute to insomnia in children with ASD is a low iron store, as manifest by low serum ferritin levels.
This two-part study starts with a personalized sleep education for the family. In the second portion of the study, children will be randomized to receive oral iron supplementation or placebo for a period of 12 weeks. The study is supported by funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to the Autism Treatment Network.