“Touch” Sheds Light on Autism Myths

A recent television preview of the Fox Network’s “Touch” revealed some very interesting views of learning disabilities, in particular autism. The show, featuring “24” star Kiefer Sutherland, is about the life of a single father – who lost his wife in the collapse of the World Trade Centers on 9/11 – desperate to connect with his 10-year-old son who has never spoken a single word. The boy, whose existence revolves around numbers, is misdiagnosed with severe autism.

During the series preview, which aired last week, it’s discovered that the boy is not necessarily autistic, but possesses brain functions far beyond current human understanding. Although the series is fiction, it does pose questions regarding current autism diagnoses.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention most recent study of 2006 statistics, one out of 110 children (up through age 8) were diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. This number represents a 57% increase in the number of diagnoses over the previous four years, and the CDC states that the increase was across the board…all states, all genders and all walks of life. Furthermore, it appears that recent data shows additional increases in the prevalence of autism. Is it misdiagnoses or are we simply getting better at diagnosing the illness? It could be a little bit of both.

A recent discussion with the ARC of Crawford County, which could be considered one of the local authorities on working with autistic children and adults, explained how we have arrived at such an alarming increase in autistic children. Over the last five years, scientists have identified a number of rare gene changes, or mutations, associated with autism. A small number of these can cause the disease by themselves; however, most cases seem to be caused by a combination of these risk genes as well as environmental factors that influence early brain development. So, science is getting better at pinpointing causes for improved diagnosis.

In addition, we have labeled various types of learning disabilities as autism, giving it a very broad definition that science has latched onto. This means that some people who have been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder may not have autism at all. Autism is actually one of the five autism spectrum disorders. Unfortunately, autism spectrum disorder and autism have both become general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. The other spectrum disorders are Asperger Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Rett Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Each is characterized by impaired social interaction and communications skills and a limited range of activities and interests. But having one of those symptoms should not indicate an autism diagnosis.

Many children and adults with developmental disabilities are able to live productive lives. Each individual with autism is unique with many having exceptional abilities in music, art, math, and many other academic abilities. According to the ARC of Crawford County, about 40 percent have an average to above average intellectual ability, which makes the illness difficult for the general population to understand. They have an atypical view of the world which is far beyond the capability of “normal” individuals to comprehend. This viewpoint is clearly displayed by Jacob, the alleged autistic child in the Fox Series “Touch.” This child was fascinated with numbers, but as the story unfolded, those numbers actually meant something. It was a type of communications tool for him that was so obvious to the boy, but for those who could not identify with the “atypical” line of thinking, the situation was nothing short of frustrating.

With autism on the rise, it’s important that we learn how to adapt rather than push these children aside as “lost causes.” Here are five lessons from the Autism Society of America that may help you deal with an autistic child or adult. First, it’s critical to understand that autism is not a mental illness. It is a developmental disorder. Second, individuals with autism are capable of learning; however, the method of learning is very different from the traditional norms of our society. Be patient in your understanding of their mode of comprehension, and try not to force them into traditional learning that they simply cannot grasp. Third, some children with autism can communicate with both verbally and nonverbally. It’s important to realize that some autistic children may be able to speak, other cannot. This will help you understand how to approach your relationship with the person. Fourth, autistic children do have emotions and are able to show affection. Each child is different and their affect mechanisms may not come in the form of the traditional hug and kiss. Just because they may not understand the concept of touching doesn’t mean they are incapable of giving and receiving affection. Finally, autism cannot be outgrown. This is a lifelong disorder that you and the child must learn to work with. These individuals are beautiful, wonderful and loving people. They just happen to think in an atypical manner which we as a general society have yet to understand.

For more information on autism, you are encouraged to contact the ARC of Crawford County at 222 Chestnut Street in Meadville or phone 814-724-7346, or connect with the Autism Outreach Center in Meadville at 375 Chestnut Street, 814-337-5046.

References

ARC of Crawford County. (2012). Personal communications from Executive Director Randy Gorske, January 25, 2012.

Autism Society of America. (n.d.). Autism 101 Online Course. Retrieved January 26, 2012 from http://www.autism-society.org/living-with-autism/how-we-can-help/autism-101-online-course/online-course_01.html.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2012). Autism Spectrum Disorders. Retrieved January 26, 2012 from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html#prevalence.

Sherrow, R. (2012). Kiefer Sutherland matures in new Fox series “Touch.” Retrieved January 26, 2012 from http://www.tulsaworld.com/scene/article.aspx?subjectid=275&articleid=20120125_275_D1_CUTLIN426412.

Swim the winter blues away

Well, just look outside… winter has arrived. And, for those who are not snow birds will typically hunker down during the cold weather months. For older people, that hunkering down activity could potentially weaken the body’s joints, muscles, and bones. In turn, this lack of regular movement can promote obesity and poor posture from sitting around all day as well as create increased threats of depression and stress.

The frigid temperatures shouldn’t leave you immobilized. One of the best ways to cope with winter is to become more physically active, not less. However, for older people, being out in the cold air to participate in snow sports may not the optimal solution. The stress on the joints and bones from skiing, snowboarding, or even snowshoeing or walking may cause more problems if not first conditioned. So, what’s the answer?

One of the best ways to maintain an exercise regime through the frosty winter is to do something that keeps you warm. That basically requires something indoors. According to Café Baby Boomers, a web-based organization focused on people over age 50, high impact aerobic exercise can have a detrimental impact on the bones, joints and muscles of seniors.

That’s why they believe that the ideal activity for this population is swimming. A recent article from Café Baby Boomers described swimming as the best way “to get in shape” and improve your overall fitness level…while staying warm.

It is common knowledge that regular exercise such as swimming combats the onset of health issues as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and some cancers. Regular exercise will also boost the immune system to help fight off diseases, especially influenza and the even common cold.

According to Café Baby Boomers, swimming is the best exercise for the older generations because it is easy on the joints as the body can move weightless through the water. The article noted that “the human body is approximately the same density as water so that it is easily supported by it … When we swim we move our bodies in ways that are fundamentally different than when we exercise in other ways.”

While there are many benefits to exercise, these are the key benefits of swimming in particular:

1. improved cardiovascular conditioning
2. improved flexibility
3. improved physical appearance due to muscle toning
4. improved posture
5. increased muscle strength
6. eased muscle tension
7. improved balance
8. weight and appetite control
9. stress reduction
10. reduced risk of osteoporosis

As you age, regular exercise can help you live with improved overall health. If you hate the idea of winter sports or anything that requires being in the frigid air or the mounds of snow, then jump in a heated pool and not only warm your muscles but warm your heart toward greater health.

So, where in Meadville can you swim? There are several swimming pools open to the general public. There is the Meadville Area Recreational Complex, which caters to families and children. There are neither senior-specific water classes nor swim instructors. This is specifically for recreational activity and may be an option for those who already have a swimming regime.

Another option would be the Meadville Family YMCA. Their pool caters to a wide variety of generations as well as swimming abilities. Swim instructors and coaches are available to help you make the most of your water activities. Furthermore, several water aerobic classes are scattered throughout the week including deep water and regular water aerobics. With the water temperature warmly set at 86-degrees, this particular pool makes water walking an easy activity for those who want to stay active through the winter.

Both pools will cost you a bit of money. The MARC charges $4 for a general admission pass and membership rates vary depending on your residence. The YMCA also charges $10 for a day pass, but monthly memberships are also available. A benefit for utilizing the YMCA pool is the potential of subsidized memberships. Silver Sneakers is a senior citizen focused program offered through Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield that could either pay for all or part of your membership.

Consider checking out the options. Having access to a heated pool to stay warm in the wintertime should make the effort worthwhile!

References

Café Baby Boomers. (n.d.). Top 10 benefits of swimming for seniors. Retrieved January 15, 2012 from http://www.cafebabyboomers.com/health-fitness/Top-10-Benefits-of-Swimming-for-Seniors.php.

Lasley, J. (2012). Personal communications. Meadville Family YMCA Executive Director.

Meadville Area Recreational Complex. (2012). Aquatics program. Retrieved January 15, 2012 from http://marc4fun.com/pool.htm#top.

Drivers Wanted: Increased Cancer Means Increased Needs

Incidence and mortality rates from all types of cancer are on the rise in the United States, Pennsylvania, and even in Crawford County.

At last November’s Crawford Health Improvement Coalition Annual Meeting, Dr. Nimit Sudan, Director of Medical Oncology at the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute remarked that 562,875 people (or 23.2%) in the United States succumbed to some form of cancer in 2007.

Statewide, the Department of Health’s most recent report from 2009 showed that more than 75,000 people in Pennsylvania were diagnosed with some form of cancer. In Crawford County, more than 2,700 people contracted some form of cancer between 2004 and 2008. Those numbers have increased tremendously over the years.

With all of the depressing news, there is a bright light that may help people who have been afflicted with cancer. The American Cancer Society operates a program known as Road to Recovery which has become a godsend to those requiring regular treatment. According to the society, cancer patients may be able to survive longer by having their cancer move into remission from the treatments they receive. The problem is that sometimes these people cannot get to their appointments regularly or even at all.

The Road to Recovery provides free transportation for cancer patients to and from their cancer-related appointments. The program is made possible through volunteer drivers who give their time, talent and sometimes use of their personal vehicles to get these people to life-saving appointments.

Because the cancer incidence rates are up across the county, so is the need for this service. Last year, the American Cancer Society provided 595 rides to 29 individual cancer patients in Crawford County. This is up from just 224 rides provided the previous year – an increase of more than 60%! In neighboring Erie County, the number of rides doubled from 2010 to 2011, and in Warren County, the number of rides increased by 138%.

Considering that treatments can save lives in many cases, the need to keep appointments is critical. Crawford County is currently suffering from a 50% drop in volunteer drivers. As of December, there were only 6 drivers to handle the 600+ rides needed across the county. The treatments vary from patient to patient with some requiring transportation every week over the course of six to eight weeks while others need daily treatment for an undetermined amount of time. Anna-Marie Labowski, cancer control specialist with the American Cancer Society, made a fairly depressing statement recently when she said, “Many of these patients have no other available transportation so if a volunteer is not available their appointments are cancelled.”

As stated previously, these treatments could mean the different between life and death.

                                        

Toward that end, the American Cancer Society has put out a call for drivers. Drivers will be requested to transport patients from all over the county to their appointments, which could be local or in Erie, Buffalo, Cleveland or Pittsburgh. Thanks to the Meadville Medical Center, there is a van that can be utilized for many of these trips.

As per its motto, the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program is one that works to save lives so we can live in a world with more birthdays.

How you can help:

Volunteer drivers are needed to help provide transportation to and from cancer treatment appointments. Drivers require no special skills or education. All that they need is a safe driving record, current insurance, some free time, a serviceable vehicle, and a willingness to help. To become a Road to Recovery volunteer, contact the American Cancer Society at 888-227-5445 or visit www.cancer.org.

References

Crawford Health Improvement Coalition. (2011). Annual meeting reports. Retrieved January 13, 2012 from http://www.crawfordcountypartnership.org.

Pennsylvania State Department of Health. (2011). Pennsylvania cancer incidence and mortality 2009 executive summary. Retrieved January 13, 2012 from http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=590073&mode=2.

Pennsylvania State Department of Health. (2011). An analysis of cancer incidence in Pennsylvania counties, 2004-2008. Retrieved January 13, 2012 from http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=596023&mode=2.

Be Prepared for Winter Weather Emergencies

A recent presentation from an American Red Cross representative reminded me of how totally unprepared most of us are in the event of an emergency. Emergencies can include everything from pandemic influenza to winter blizzards to hurricanes and earthquakes. Public health professionals across the country deal with unique emergency situations depending upon their geographic locations. For example, Californians deal with earthquakes, Floridians handle hurricanes, and our area is most likely affected by major winter storms.

While almost all of us have survived such inclement weather, the majority of us are not fully prepared for it. In fact, the Red Cross noted that less than 10 percent of us are fully prepared to handle a serious emergency – one that would shut down the city, cause massive power outages, close all roads, and halt all normal activities of daily living. It is the job of those in the public health field to keep communities safe during such emergencies, but it is also the responsibility of families to prepare for such disasters.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most critical step to survive a winter weather disaster – the most likely emergency to affect our area – is to be prepared well in advance. They have published an Extreme Cold Weather Guide that is available free from its website at www.cdc.gov/disasters. This 15-page book provides a guide to prepare your home, your car and your family for any type of winter weather emergency.

This guide contains critical information on extreme weather conditions as well as wind chills and how they affect the human body. It also discusses how you can prepare your home for the winter, preparing your car for traveling through inclement weather, indoor and outdoor safety concerns, and dealing with medical concerns such as hypothermia or frostbite.  

Another guide is available through the American Red Cross’ emergency services division. Their “Be Red Cross Ready” program offers any community members. In fact, their three-step plan may be one of the easiest to follow now in order to prepare future emergency situations. The steps are 1) Get a Kit; 2) Make a Plan; and 3) Be Informed.  You can obtain more information at www.redcross.org.

According to the Red Cross presentation I recently attended, the most important issue for personal safety is to put together a survival kit in the event you are trapped at home without power or phone. It can also serve as a three-day supply for you if evacuation is required. It is strongly suggested to obtain a plastic bin or something waterproof that will serve as your emergency preparedness kit.  

Regardless of which guidebook you obtain, it is critical that you prepare for harsh weather that is commonplace in our region. Being prepared will help you, your family and your community survive such disasters.

Emergency Preparedness Kit for your home should include the following basic items:

1.       Water (plan for a 2-week supply; one gallon per person per day)

2.       Nonperishable, easy-to-prepare food items (two week supply)

3.       Flashlight

4.       Battery-powered radio

5.       Extra batteries for both the radio and flashlight

6.       First aid kit

7.       Medications and other needed medical items

8.       Multipurpose tool

9.       Sanitation and personal hygiene items

10.   Copies of personal documents such as passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, etc.)

11.   Cell phone with chargers

12.   Family and emergency contact information

13.   Extra cash

14.   Emergency Blanket

15.   Maps of the area

*It is also important to prepare for taking care of any pets you may have. And, if you need to evacuate, please take them with you. Never abandon your pets.

Winter Survival Kit for your car should include:

1.       Blankets

2.       First Aid Kit

3.       An empty can and matches (to melt snow for water)

4.       Windshield scraper

5.       Booster cables

6.       Maps

7.       Mobile phone

8.       Compass

9.       Paper towels

10.   Cat litter or sand (to help with traction should you get stuck)

11.   Tow rope

12.   Tire chains

13.   Container of water

14.   Collapsible shovel

15.   Flashlight and extra batteries

16.   Brightly colored cloth (to place on car in case your vehicle is disabled)

Heating your home safely:

1.       Make sure fireplaces and furnaces are properly vented before using them

2.       Do not burn paper in a fireplace

3.       Use only the type of fuel for which your heating unit is designed

4.       Do not place a space heater within three feet of anything that could catch fire

5.       Never place a space heater near water or on top of the furniture

6.       Never leave children unattended near an operating space heater

7.       Store a multi-use fire extinguisher near your heating unit

8.       Never use generators, grills, or similar devices indoors to protect against Carbon Monoxide poisoning

References

American Red Cross. (2011). Preparedness fast facts. Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed. Retrieved December 21, 2011 from http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.86f46a12f382290517a8f210b80f78a0/?vgnextoid=fc56d7aada352210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD&vgnextfmt=default.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2011). Extreme cold. A prevention guide to promote your personal health and safety. Retrieved December 21, 2011 from http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/pdf/cold_guide.pdf.