April is National Autism Month Autism: A Family Affair Don’t Wait, Vaccinate: Protect Infants from Deadly Diseases
Did You Know? Living Well Through Awareness
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 1 in 68 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There is currently no cure for ASD. However, research shows that early intervention treatment services can improve a child’s development.
By Cathy Nedd Chief Operating Officer Michigan Chronicle
Welcome to Living Well. Recognized as the single most credible source of fitness, health and nutrition information for African Americans, each edition is crafted to provide insight into health disparities impacting African Americans and methods on prevention and treatment. There is a growing need for health awareness in our community. The mission of Living Well is to provide our readers with a wealth of information that enables them to live healthier and happier lives. In these pages you will find content on health issues, healthy lifestyles and relatable personal stories from people in our community. There is a growing need for health awareness in our community. The mission of Living Well is to provide readers with a wealth of information that enables them to live healthier and happier lives. On these pages you will find content on health issues, healthy lifestyles and relatable personal stories from people in our community. In honor of National Autism Awareness Month, in April, Living Well spoke with Colleen Allen, Ph.D., from Autism Alliance of Michigan to gain insight into the importance of autism awareness. We also spoke with Arlethia Kennedy whose daughter has autism to get a better understand of life with the condition. While there are claims that vaccinations cause autism, there is no medical evidence to support this. It is important that we protect our children from preventable communicable diseases such as measles. Take a look inside to see why vaccines are so important and how to protect your child from a measles outbreak. Living Well isn’t just words on a page, it’s a lifestyle enhancer and the Michigan Chronicle takes pride in helping lead the way. Be healthy and Live Well.
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| Raising Awareness for Autism | Autism: A Family Affair Wait Vaccinate: Protect Infants | Don’t from Deadly Disease to Protect Children During a | How Measles Outbreak
Publisher | Hiram E. Jackson Managing Editor | Tatiana Jackson Graphic Designer | Juan Sifuentes 2 LivingWELL • March 2015
When taken during pregnancy, the prescription drugs valproic acid and thalidomide have been linked with a higher risk of ASD. Diagnosing ASD can be difficult since there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorders. Doctors look at the child’s behavior and development to make a diagnosis. If you think your child might have ASD or you think there could be a problem with the way your child plays, learns, speaks, or acts, contact your child’s doctor, and share your concerns. At the same time, call your state’s public early childhood system to request a free evaluation to find out if your child qualifies for intervention services. This is sometimes called a Child Find evaluation. You do not need to wait for a doctor’s referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call.
Raising Awareness of
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n honor of National Autism Awareness Month, Living Well spoke to Colleen Allen, Ph.D, from Autism Alliance of Michigan to discuss autism spectrum disorder and why raising awareness is so important. Living Well: What are the signs and characteristics of autism? Colleen Allen: Autism is characterized by deficits/limitations in three primary areas: 1) Socialization: Examples of social deficits might include poor eye contact, not showing affection, laughing or crying inappropriately 2) Communication: Examples include no or limited verbal language, echoing what others say, excessively repeating words or phrases, or overly obsessed/focused on one topic to the exclusion of others’ comments or conversational interests 3) Restricted, repetitive behaviors and interests. Examples of restricted, repetitive behaviors include need for sameness and significant difficulty with transitions, excessive play with unusual objects and in the same, repetitive manner. Please note distinguishing these behaviors from normal is the intensity, quality, and extent that they interfere with normal function or daily activities. LW: Are there resources available to help parents determine if their child has autism? CA: While the Internet has become a great tool for learning about various medical conditions, the potential for undue anxiety exists since most parents cannot clearly delineate the wide range of normal behavior from autism. For example, “does not make eye contact” and “lining up toys” are often listed as early signs of autism. How-
ever, eye contact is difficult to measure and many, very typical children line up objects as part of normal development or experiences. A good resource is the CDC website (http://www.cdc. gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html). However, I would, again, exercise caution in how the information is interpreted. Only trained autism specialists can accurately and reliably diagnose this condition. Colleen Allen, Ph.D LW: How is autism diagnosed? CA: Autism looks like many other disorders and many other disorders look like autism. Obtaining an accurate, reliable diagnosis requires a highly trained specialist, or in many cases, a team of specialists, who will evaluate a number of developmental areas to first rule out the many related conditions that share features with autism. These areas include behavior, communication, learning and academic skills, social features, sensory characteristics, medical, and motor development. An autism diagnostic team might include a neurologist, pediatrician, psychiatrist, speech/language pathologist, social worker, psychologist, or any combination of these. LW: What resources are available to families that are coping with Autism? CA: Autism Alliance of Michigan (www.autismallianceofmichigan.org) is the best resource for information, support and services in our state. A number of reputable organizations provide evidence based information to help families make good choices, but these are often difficult to navigate. Unfortunately, many parents struggle with
being able to distinguish good information from bad. The MiNavigator service offered by AAoM can help families find their way. LW: Why is advocacy for autism so important? CA: While we have made great progress in Michigan to provide better care for individuals with autism, such as autism insurance laws, the Michigan Autism Council, and adoption of an Autism Spectrum Disorders State Plan, we have a long way to go. Advocacy directed to policy reform, legislative action, and sufficient funding, is needed to address adult service issues, such as living arrangements and employment. Additionally, improved education and transitional programming is needed to meet the growing needs of the aging population of persons with autism. LW: How can the community get involved in raising awareness for autism? CA: Through inclusion efforts. Families with autism are often isolated from the activities in our community that most enjoy. Frequently, going to the store, enjoying a restaurant or even a shopping trip can create challenges. Through education, understanding and acceptance, our community will be in a better position to support those with autism, and to recognize the gifts and special talents which can contribute to our society in ways most of us can’t imagine. Other ways the community can get involved in raising awareness is to support autism events and initiatives, especially during the month of April, National Autism Awareness Month. For more information please visit: www.autismallianceofmichigan.org. LivingWELL • March 2015 3
Autism: A Family Affair By Tatiana Jackson
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ccording to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the estimated probability of being drafted from the NCAA to the National Football League (NFL) is 2 in 100. The identified prevalence of autism spectrum disorder states, 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Living Well set out to find a family affected by autism. Arlethia Kennedy shared her story about her 2-year-old daughter, Gigi, who was diagnosed with autism last October. Living Well: What signs did Gigi display that raised concern before her diagnosis? Arlethia Kennedy: The first red flag was Gigi’s difficulty eating. She could only drink about 2 or 3 ounces of milk, without upsetting her stomach. The doctor changed her formula multiple times without relief. To help her digestion, I reduced the amount of milk. LW: Is Gigi able to digest food better now that she older? AK: Yes. She is able to digest her food, but now she is extremely particular about what she eats. Gigi favors vegetable, noodles, cereal, nutrigrain bars and juice. Getting her to eat anything else is very difficult. If it is not exactly what she wants, she will throw a huge tantrum, while growling and grunting and will not eat. LW: Does she have fits frequently in other situations? AK: Gigi will have tantrums anywhere. They are uncontrollable fits, due to her not being able to communicate her needs and wants. In public people will stare and think I cannot control my child, but her disorder is really the cause of her behavior. At times she will repeat words after people and easily forgets words that she knows, apart of her diminishing vocabulary. LW: What other behaviors does Gigi display due to autism?
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AK: She does not sleep well at night. There are some nights I do not sleep because I am up trying to put her to bed. Gigi does not like being touched in any way even playing with other children. She is also very attached to her routine. Gigi’s routine is the same every day. Although children tend to like routines, if there is any change in plans Gigi will throw a tantrum. I keep our days consistent to reduce the chances of a tantrum. LW: When did you take Gigi for an evaluation for autism? AK: I took her to a neurologist, who diagnosed her with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. At our first appointment Gigi did not make eye contact with the doctor or answer when he called her name. The doctor prescribed her medication and by the fifth visit she began to acknowledge him and her sleeping habits are improving. We still have progress to make, but it’s a start. LW: How do you cope with Gigi’s disorder? AK: I am fortunate to have the support of her father and my family. I also love to laugh. My sense of humor keeps me going most days. I talk to a professional counselor to get a better understanding on how to cope with Gigi’s behavior. LW: What advice can you give other families that are affected by Autism? AK: Stay connected with other parents. This helps to share ideas, stories and coping mechanisms. I have learned children with autism spectrum disorder display different behaviors, but having a strong support system is a tremendous help.
Public Health Guide Directory Access to free or low-cost primary care from a doctor or nurse is just around the corner. Below is a list of community health centers. Community health care centers provide services regardless of health coverage.
Children’s Dental Center - Main 79 W Alexandrine St, Detroit, Michigan 48201-2015 313-835-5990 Detroit Central City Health Center 3427 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201-2725 313-831-3160 http://www.dcccmh.org Detroit Central City Administrative Site 10 Peterboro St, Detroit, Michigan 48201-2722 313-831-3160 Woodward Corridor Family Medical Center 611 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Detroit, Michigan 48201-2273 313-832-6300 http://www.dchcquality.org University Health Center - St. Antoine 4201 Saint Antoine St, Detroit, Michigan 48201-2153 313-745-4091
Autism Community Calendar
Waller Health Center on Cathedral Green 60 E Warren Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201-1312 313-897-2061 http://www.ahcdetroit.org
World Autism Awareness Day April 2, 2015
Fort Street Presbyterian Church (Seasonal) 631 W Fort St, Detroit, Michigan 48226-3106 313-961-3617 The Wellness Plan, Gateway Medical Center 2888 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, Michigan 48202-2612 313-875-5932 http://www.wellplan.com
“Light it Up Blue with Autism Speaks” #LIUB Register at www.autismspeaks.org/LIUB/goto-register “Success is a Spectrum” – a conference for autism heroes April 17,2015 Wayne County Community College District, Belleville, Michigan
Salvation Army-Fort Street 1627 W Fort St, Detroit, Michigan 48216-1914 313-867-2061
4th Annual Michigan Shines for Autism Gala & Champions Night April 18th, 2015 - 6PM
Community Hlth & Social SVCS CTR 7436 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48202-3100 313-556-9907 http://www.chasscenter.org
DTE Energy Headquarters One Energy Plaza, Detroit 2015 AAOM Autism Hero Family Walk The Detroit Zoo 7:30 am: Event registration and check-in begins 8:30 am: Walk begins 9:00 am-noon: Post-walk festivities in the events pavilion LivingWELL • March 2015 5
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Don’t Wait, Vaccinate: Protect Infants from Deadly Diseases
t may seem like diseases like polio, measles and whooping cough are a thing of the past. But the 201415 measles outbreak is a stark reminder that these viruses still circulate and children who are not immunized are at risk.
diphtheria and pertussis vaccine until they are two months old, and they can’t receive a flu vaccine until six months. When pregnant women are immunized with these vaccines, that protection extends to their newborns,” said Dr. Hassink.
bies calm down quickly after being held by parents and hearing their reassuring voices. Breastfeeding during or immediately following the vaccination can provide significant relief. Some pediatricians might offer remedies, such as a cooling spray or topical anesthetic cream.
During National Infant Immunization Week, April 1825, pediatricians are highlighting the importance of protecting our most vulnerable children from infectious diseases.
Expectant parents can also encourage their families to be vaccinated against flu and pertussis (also known as whooping cough), to provide a cocoon of protection around the newborn.
“One of the most important decisions you can make as a parent is to immunize your child against disease,” says Sandra G. Hassink, MD, FAAP, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “It’s best to immunize your child on time, according to the recommended vaccine schedule. These diseases are unpredictable, and we never know where they will pop up next in our communities. ”
Follow the Schedule Your pediatrician will outline the recommended schedule of vaccines. The first vaccine is hepatitis B, which infants usually receive a day or two after birth. Your child’s first year will also include immunizations against pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, rotavirus, pneumococcal, polio and haemophilus influenza type b (Hib).
Combination vaccines include up to five vaccines in a single vial, so fewer needles are needed. Remember, any discomfort your baby feels is experienced as a single event, even if he or she receives multiple vaccines in a visit. Spreading vaccines over multiple visits will only increase the number of times your baby feels pain, and leave your baby unprotected longer.
Protection Begins Early The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention all recommend children be immunized against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases by the time they are two years old. Mothers can even begin protecting their infants before they are even born.
The immunization schedule has been carefully designed so children receive each vaccine when it will produce the best response from their immune systems, and when the child is most vulnerable to a particular disease. Delaying vaccines means delaying protection from these diseases. Talk with your pediatrician if you have questions about your child’s vaccines.
“Protecting your newborn should start during pregnancy. Infants don’t receive their first dose of tetanus,
Ease Tears While vaccinations can cause discomfort, most ba-
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“Infants are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases. Following the recommended immunization schedule ensures your baby will be protected as soon as possible,” Dr. Hassink said. Learn more about infant and childhood immunizations at www.healthychildren.org. Just as you never leave home without buckling your baby into a car seat, you should always protect your child from infectious diseases. (Statepoint)
How to Protect Children During a Measles Outbreak A
measles outbreak that began in late 2014 in California has since spread to multiple states. Most of those who have gotten sick from this highly infectious disease were not vaccinated against measles.Experts are calling the current outbreak an important reminder to vaccinate children fully against the disease. “Vaccines are one of the most important ways parents can protect their children from measles and other diseases,” said Sandra Hassink, MD, FAAP, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “The measles vaccine is safe, necessary and effective.” The AAP is offering some fast facts about measles and the measles vaccine. • Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air or on infected surfaces. It causes rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and red watery eyes. In rare cases it can cause encephalitis that can lead to deafness or mental retardation. Of every 1,000 people who get measles, one or two will die. • The AAP, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the American Academy of Family Physicians all recommend children receive the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine at age 12-15 months, and again at four to six years old. • It’s best to protect children with MMR vaccine as soon as they are old enough to receive
it. Delaying vaccination leaves children vulnerable to measles for a longer period of time. Vaccinating on time also protects other children in the community, including infants younger than 12 months who cannot be vaccinated and are most susceptible to serious illness, hospitalization and death due to measles. • Getting the measles vaccine is much safer than getting the measles infection. Like any medicine, the vaccine is capable of causing side effects but usually these are mild, such as pain or swelling at the injection site and a fever that lasts a day or two. The risk of the measles vaccine causing serious harm is extremely small. • If you are not sure if you or your children have been fully vaccinated against measles, talk with your doctor to see if anyone in your family needs to be vaccinated. There is no risk in receiving the measles vaccine if you have been immunized before. Your pediatrician is your best source of advice on vaccinations. More information about the measles and the measles vaccine can be found by talking with your pediatrician and by visiting www.healthychildren. org. When it comes to your children’s health, take control when and where you can. Experts agree that a great place to start is by ensuring your children receive the measles vaccine, as well as the full range of vaccines recommended by your pediatrician. (Statepoint)
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The Michigan Chronicle is proud to present our 2014 fall school choice guide, ACHIEVE! Despite many changes over the past few years, too few tools exist to help parents easily navigate through today’s educational landscape. ACHIEVE! aims to identify the options, issues and performance of Metro Detroit schools, while exposing existing disparities between school types and districts. ACHIEVE! offers an unbiased view of public, magnet, private or charter school options worthy of exploration, in addition to high-quality after school, tutoring and other programs that support urban households. Our educational guide gives parents the tools not only to identify the “best” schools, but also to choose the best school for their child. Over 50,000 copies of ACHIEVE! have been distributed throughout metro Detroit via insertion in the Michigan Chronicle, direct drops at targeted schools, libraries, resource centers, local churches and retail chains.
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We hope you find the information within the pages to be informative and helpful. For advertising and sponsorship opportunities call 313.963.5522. Make sure that parents are aware of your school! 8 LivingWELL • March 2015
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