Prenatal multivitamins linked to lower autism risk

A new study suggests prenatal multivitamins may reduce a child’s risk of developing autism. The study analyzed more than a quarter-million mother-child pairs in Sweden and found a link between multivitamin use and risk of the neurological disorder.

It’s estimated that 1 in ever 68 people in the United States has a form of autism, boys more than girls. And since mothers-to-be are already advised to take prenatal vitamins, this could be an added benefit.

“Multivitamin use with or without added iron or folic acid was associated with a lower likelihood of having a child with an intellectual disability, compared with mothers who did not use supplements,” said lead researcher Elizabeth DeVillbiss, a Ph.D. graduate in epidemiology and biostatistics at Drexel University’s Dornsife School of Public Health. In fact, the odds of autism in the multivitamin group were 30 percent lower.

Autism, experts believe, is caused by genetic and environmental factors. It most likely starts in the womb, and the mother’s diet during pregnancy might have an influence, said DeVillbiss.

However’, it’s too early to recommend multivitamins specifically for lowering autism risk. The study couldn’t yield definitive cause and effect proof. It was observational and didn’t keep track of specific supplements taken, timing, and the doses. Plus, the results of other studies have been inconsistent.

Even so, it’s recommended that pregnant women take multivitamins- before and after pregnancy while they are still breast-feeding.

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Health insurance has changed dramatically in the last year, with many companies, like Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and IU Health, leaving the individual market in Indiana. This means there are fewer choices for 2018 making it important to begin shopping early.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA)’s open enrollment period allows individuals to enroll in a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Any family who has a child with autism and wants access to therapy should have a healthy insurance plan covering ABA services. So, for those that do not currently have health insurance, or have group coverage not covering ABA Therapy, now’s the time to enroll.

To obtain insurance coverage in 2018, you mus purchase a policy between November 1 and December 15, 2017. While you may purchase a policy anytime during this period, the earliest the plan will be effective is January 1, 2018. The good news is ACA plans are fully funded and are mandated to include coverage of autism services. Plus, it doesn’t affect the cost of the plan in any way. The Insurance Department at Lighthouse Autism Center has been working diligently with an insurance broker to identify plans that will most benefit families with autism.

To learn more or inquire about purchasing a policy, you can contact Lighthouse Insurance Manager, Michele Rohyans, at 574-387-4313, or micheler@lighthouseautismcenter.com.

When asked how Lighthouse can help families, Sandy Maggioli said, “We will help families find a policy that is right for them and even help them apply for grants to cover their out-of-pocket expenses. It is our goal to help families in any way we can, starting with the insurance process.”