According to DisabilityScoop.com, the number of people diagnosed with autism could decrease by nearly one-third under new criteria for diagnosing the developmental disorder. 
The website reported that a new edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, known as the DSM-5, introduced extensive changes to the criteria for an autism diagnosis.
The website reported that the changes include the deletion of “Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified, instead establishing an umbrella classification of ‘autism spectrum disorder’ with clinicians indicating a level of severity.”
A new study by the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders has some experts worried that people who previously qualified for a diagnosis on the autism spectrum will be left out, due to the changes.
According to DisabilityScoop, researchers with the journal found that 31 percent of those who met the diagnostic criteria for autism under the old DSM could no longer meet the new standards.
Advocates worry that this may hurt children and adults, keeping them from qualifying for needed services.
“We are potentially going to lose diagnosis and treatment for some of the most vulnerable kids who have developmental delays,” Kristine Kulage of the Columbia University School of Nursing who led the study for the journal said, according to DisabilityScoop. “In many instances, children require a diagnosis of ASD to receive medical benefits, educational support and social services.”
In addition to the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, a study conducted earlier this year using data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nearly 1 in 5 children previously diagnosed with autism would not qualify under the new definition, according to DisabilityScoop.
What Can I Do If My Fraternal Twins Have Autism?
This news is unfortunate for families of autism victims. Our attorneys are currently investigating cases of fraternal twins diagnosed with autism whose mothers were treated with the drug terbutaline.
Terbutaline is actually the generic, more commonly-used version of Brethine and Bricanyl. About 1 million women use the drug every year to help stop pre-term labor, prolong pregnancy and prevent premature birth.
Studies have indicated that terbutaline could have a negative impact on an unborn baby’s brain development because it can cause overstimulation of certain brain activity.
Incredibly, terbutaline is actually a drug used to fight asthma and its use during births is controversial—the US Food and Drug Administration has not approved the use of the drug for anything other than treating asthma.
If you or someone you love has autistic fraternal twins, call our firm at 1 (800) 460-0606 to schedule a free consultation. Our firm is well-versed in birth injury law and can provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to pursue your case.
[Did You Know: According to the CDC, male children are twice more likely to have a developmental disability than females are.]
Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – Birth Injury Attorneys
Source: http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/03/03/under-dsm-autism-decrease/19159/
