UCLA research center announces initiative for autism spectrum disorder
By Christopher Hurley
Oct. 15, 2014 6:40 p.m.
UCLA’s Center for Healthier Children, Families and Communities recently announced the establishment of a national research initiative for people with autism spectrum disorder.
The Autism Spectrum Disorder Health Care Transitions Research Network will research the health, family and social needs of adolescents, a group the center says is typically overlooked by most health care and social services, as they enter adulthood, according to a UCLA Health System press release.
A $900,000 grant from the national Maternal and Child Health Bureau enabled the center to create the program.
Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by social, communication and behavioral issues.
Individuals with autism, which is typically diagnosed in childhood, struggle after they “age out” of programs sponsored primarily by school or pediatric programs.
“There are virtually no programs to support their transition into adulthood,” said Dr. Alice Kuo, associate director of the center.
The network will focus on research that aims to improve outcomes, physically, socially and mentally, for young adults with autism.
Compiled by Christopher Hurley, Bruin reporter.
