Effects of Gastrointestinal Issues Extend Beyond Individuals With Autism to Their Families

“We know there is a connection between gastrointestinal symptoms and ASD. However, we still need to figure out what contributes to poor gut health for this patient population, including anxiety, diet, microbiome imbalance or medication for co-occuring conditions,” said lead author of the study, Calliope Holingue, MPH, Ph.D., a psychiatric epidemiologist at Kennedy Krieger’s Center for Autism and Related Disorders who studies the intersection of physical and mental health, particularly as it relates to ASD. “Given the profound impact that GI symptoms place on this population, it’s important to identify risk factors and develop interventions that will serve their health care needs.” Learn more