Autism Research Institute - Defeat Autism Now! Conferences
General Sessions for Parents & Caregivers |
For attendees who are new to the biomedical approach or who have some background knowledge; not intended for those with pertinent professional training
Early Bird Special: Buy three conference days (general, nutrition, and/or science sessions) for $179. Offer ends March 19, 2010
Accompanied Children and Dependents
ARI/Defeat Autism Now! does not provide childcare at the conference. The conference is presented in a seated lecture format, therefore, finding alternative childcare is strongly encouraged.
Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for the safety and conduct of their children/dependent companions at all times.
Out of consideration for other attendees: If your child/dependent companion is causing noise or disruption during conference presentations, we will respectfully ask that you please escort them out and assist them.
|
Also See:
Science Sessions
Nutrition Seminar (Friday Only)
Evening Workshops
7:30-8:30 |
|
Registration, Exhibit Viewing, Hosted Coffee, Cash Breakfast |
|
|
|
FRIDAY GENERAL SESSION - APRIL 9th
8:30-8:45 |
|
Welcome Announcements |
|
|
| SPEAKERS Sidney M. Baker M.D., Stephen Edelson, Ph.D. & Jon Pangborn, Ph.D. |
8:45-10:00 |
 |
Introduction to Biomedical Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorders |
|
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are currently defined in the psychiatrists' coding bible, the DSM IV. But autism is not a psychiatric disorder, it is a biological and medical disorder. Specifically, it is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory disorder that affects the brain. This lecture will present an introduction to the biomedical approach to ASDs that, when coupled with appropriate behavioral and educational therapies, provides an increased chance of significant improvement, and even of recovery. Dr. Bock received his M.D. with Honor from the University of Rochester School of Medicine in 1979. A pioneer and leader in the field of integrative medicine for over two decades, Dr. Bock’s expertise lies in bringing a comprehensive integrative medicine approach to complex medical problems, including the 4-A disorders – autism, ADHD, asthma and allergies. His healing program for the 4-A disorders is detailed in his latest book, Healing the New Childhood Epidemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma and Allergies, which has received international acclaim.
|
| SPEAKER Kenneth Bock, MD |
10-10:30 |
|
Break & Exhbit Viewing |
|
|
|
10:30-Noon |
|
The Child as a Whole: Why Biomedical and Behavioral Interventions are Both Critical to Growth and Recovery |
|
Treatment approaches grounded in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) are considered the forefront of educational interventions for children with autism. While research supports a medical etiology for autism and studies are underway to identify exact medical pathways, many case studies already point to successful outcome with medical treatments. ABA and biomedical practitioners have individually provided successful treatment models in developing a “best practices” model for autism. The time has come for these two areas of practice to merge their efforts and integrate their practices toward the development of an effective and more powerful synergy. Dr. Granpeesheh is the Founder and Executive Director of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) and the Founder and President of the Board of Autism Care and Treatment Today (ACT Today). Dr. Granpeesheh received her Ph.D. in Psychology from UCLA and is licensed by the Medical Board of California and the Texas and Arizona State Boards of Psychologists. Dr. Granpeesheh holds a Certificate of Professional Qualification in Psychology from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has been providing behavioral therapy for children with autism since 1979.
|
| SPEAKER Doreen Granpeesheh, Ph.D |
12-12:30 |
|
Q & A with Morning Speakers |
|
|
|
12:30-1:30 |
|
Cash Lunch and Exhibit Viewing |
|
|
|
1:30-2:45 |
|
Special Diets and the Picky Eater |
|
An introduction to three special diets (gluten-free/casein-free, Allergy Elimination, and the Specific Carbohydrate diet) that can support development: what they are, how they work, and who good candidates are for each. Can a fussy eater be successful on a special diet? Come and find out how. Kelly Dorfman is a licensed nutritionist and health program planner with over 28 years of clinical experience. She is a nationally known speaker and workshop leader who specializes in children with physical, behavioral, cognitive and developmental problems. Her book on how to think about children’s health issues from a nutritional perspective will be published next year by Workman Press.
|
| SPEAKER Kelly Dorfman, MS, LDN |
2:45-3:15 |
|
Afternoon Break |
|
|
|
3:15-4:30 |
|
Nutritional Therapy for Autistic Spectrum Disorder |
|
Autism is not one disease, and all remedial approaches must address the variations. Regardless of this diversity, there is an order to nutritional interventions that enhances the chances for success. This presentation guides parents and health professionals through nutritional strategies for poor digestion, gut dysbiosis and malabsorption, oxidant stress and inflammation, sleep disorder, cellular energy deficiency and unfulfilled cognitive abilities. Dr. Jon Pangborn, father of a son with autism, has been studying the biochemistry of autism for over 25 years. He is a Fellow of the American Institute of Chemists, a co-founder of Defeat Autism Now!®, and co-author of Autism: Effective Biomedical Treatments. He is the co-chair of ARI’s Scientific Advisory Panel, and a consultant for Kirkman Laboratories. Dr. Pangborn is adjunct professor of nutritional biochemistry, The Union Institute, and is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist.
|
| SPEAKER Jon Pangborn, CCN, PhD |
|
4:30-5:00 |
|
Q&A with Afternoon Speakers |
|
7:30-8:30 |
SATURDAY GENERAL SESSION - APRIL 10th
|
Registration, Exhibit Viewing, Hosted Coffee, Cash Breakfast |
|
|
|
8:30-9:45 |
|
Biomedical Interventions from A to Zinc |
|
Dr. O'Hara presents an overview of how to care for your child with autism, focusing on the importance of gut and immune system issues. Case studies will illustrate the problems in our children's gastrointestinal and immune systems, and how to best treat them. Nancy O’Hara, M.D. is a board-certified pediatrician. Prior to her medical career she taught children with autism. Dr. O'Hara graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and earned a Master's degree in Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh. She entered general private practice in 1993, and in 1998 began her consultative, integrative practice solely for children with special needs. She is a leader in the training of clinicians, both in the US and abroad.
|
| SPEAKER Nancy O’Hara, M.D. |
The Four Primary Systems Involved in Autism The next four talks provide basic explanations of the four body systems most profoundly affected in autism. Each begins with an overview of how the system works, describes what’s gone wrong in autism, and ends with possible treatments.
|
|
|
9:45-10:45 |
|
Gut Biology, Pathology, and Treatment Strategies in Patients with ASD |
|
Dr. Usman is director of True Health Medical Centre in Naperville, Illinois. Dr. Usman received her medical degree from Indiana University; she completed a residency in Family Practice at Cook County Hospital Chicago, Illinois and is board certified in Family Practice. Dr. Usman specializes in the treatment of biochemical imbalances in children with ADD and autism. She has been involved in research involving copper/zinc imbalances, metallothionein dysfunction, and metallothionein-promotion therapy.
|
| SPEAKER Anju Usman, M.D. |
10:45-11:15 |
|
Break & Exhbit Viewing |
|
| |
11:15-12:15 |
|
Metabolic System in Autism |
|
Dr. Jepson graduated from the University of Utah medical school in 1995 and is board-certified in Emergency Medicine. After his son was diagnosed with autism in 2001, he founded the Children’s Biomedical Center of Utah where he treated children with autism. In January 2006, he left his emergency medicine practice and joined the staff of Thoughtful House Center for Children in Austin, Texas. He is the author of Changing the Course of Autism: A Scientific Approach for Parents and Physicians.
|
| SPEAKER Bryan Jepson, M.D. |
12:15-12:45 |
|
Q & A with Morning Speakers |
|
|
|
12:45-2:15 |
|
Cash Lunch and Exhibit Viewing
1:15-2:00: Working Lunch Option Pill-Swallowing Clinic, Suppository Administration & an introduction to Methyl B-12 injections |
|
|
| SPEAKERS Doreen Granpeesheh, PhD & Lucas Ramirez, FNP |
2:15-3:15 |
|
Clinical Pearls about Immune Disorders in Children with Autism |
|
Dr. Mumper received her medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia and is board-certified in pediatrics. Prior to joining ARI she held a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Virginia for sixteen years. In 2007 Dr. Mumper founded The Rimland Center in Virginia, where she mentors clinicians, treats children with autism spectrum disorders, practices general pediatrics, and conducts clinical research.
|
| SPEAKER Elizabeth Mumper, M.D. |
3:15-3:45 |
|
Break & Exhbit Viewing |
|
|
|
3:45-4:45 |
|
The Brain Concerns in ASD Involve More than the Gut-Brain Connection: Neurotransmitters and Neuroimmune Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorders |
|
Dr. Bradstreet graduated from the University of South Florida College of Medicine and received his residency training from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, a member of the American College of Toxicology, and a Professor at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. He is the co-author of several original research articles on autism, including the landmark original study on mercury body burden.
|
| SPEAKER Jeff Bradstreet, M.D. |
4:45-5:15 |
|
Q&A with Afternoon Speakers |
|
|
SUNDAY GENERAL SESSION - APRIL 11th
|
|
|
9:00-10:00 |
|
Brainstem Hypothesis: Autism by Poisoning |
A broad class of neurotoxins--including mercury, monosodium glutamate, cadmium, paraquat, endotoxin, and fluoride--enter the brainstem through tiny openings that permanently lack protective blood-brain barrier. Effects of these toxins on brainstem match features of autistic regression, and could explain regression after maturity of the blood-brain barrier elsewhere by about 12 months of age. Besides explaining regression, the hypothesis points to altered brainstem development--perhaps from entirely different toxins-- in early pregnancy as the basis for early-onset autism. Dr. McGinnis coordinates research at Autism House in Auckland, New Zealand. Earlier in his career he worked as a medical volunteer in rural Peru and as a general practitioner in Arizona. His son's behavioral response to nutritional intervention thrust Dr. McGinnis into full-time research on the biochemistry and neuropathology of autism. In 2000 he gave the first lecture on heavy metals and autism for Defeat Autism Now!, and his subsequent publications on oxidative stress have served to increase concern about toxicants. |
| SPEAKER Woody McGinnis, M.D. |
10:00-11:00 |
|
Gluten, Leaky Gut, and Autism: A Serendipitous Association or a Planned Design? |
|
It has long been hypothesized that both gluten and a leaky gut play a pathogenic role in autism. However, the scientific evidence to support their involvement and the mechanism(s) triggered by these two factors remains elusive at best. Therefore, other than anecdotal reports, the scientific rationale that might justify therapeutic interventions aimed at eliminating either gluten or the intestinal barrier defect is lacking. This lecture will present new data "connecting the dots" on how gluten can cause a leaky gut, how the interplay between human genes and bacterial genes can affect this effect, and how the uncontrolled passage of antigens through a leaky gut can modify metabolic pathways that can lead to autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Fasano is Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Physiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and is the Director of the Mucosal Biology Research center at that institution. In recent years, Dr. Fasano's research has focused on the role of intestinal permeability in health and disease. Awarded several prizes, including the 2005 Innovator of the Year Award, the 2006 Best Academic/Industry Collaboration Award, the 2006 Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the 2007 America's Top Doctors Award, he has published more than 170 peer-reviewed papers, and is inventor of 150 patents.
|
| SPEAKER Alessio Fasano, M.D. |
11:00-11:15 |
|
Morning Break |
|
|
|
11:15-12:15 |
|
Autistic GI Disease: Important Unanswered Questions |
|
This presentation will present an overview of what is known about autistic bowel disease, and then proceed to lay out important clinical observations that are not yet adequately understood. The biologic explanations of these clinical observations might hold the clues necessary to unravel the complex interplay between the brain and gut in this group of children. Dr. Krigsman is a pediatrician and board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, and an assistant professor of Pediatrics at New York University School of Medicine. He is the director of gastrointestinal services at Thoughtful House Center for Children in Austin, Texas, where his time is divided between clinical care and clinical research exploring the nature of this gastrointestinal pathology in autistic children. (A New York-based satellite practice, located in Far Rockaway, services affected children living in the Northeast.) He has evaluated and treated over 1200 children suffering from autism and a variety of gastrointestinal problems, and has presented his findings in peer-reviewed journals, at scientific meetings, and at a Congressional hearing.
|
| SPEAKER Arthur Krigsman, M.D. |
12:15-12:45 |
|
Q&A with Morning Speakers |
|
|
|
12:45-1:30 |
|
Cash Lunch and Exhibit Viewing |
|
|
|
1:30-2:30 |
|
How to Assess and Prioritize Treatments: Using Evidence-Based Medicine to Choose Effective Treatments for Autism and ADHD |
|
To a parent of a child with autism or ADHD, the number of available treatments appears endless. Dr. Rossignol will discuss the concept of using evidence-based medicine to choose effective treatments for children with autism and ADHD. He will focus mainly on treatments that have proven effectiveness compared to a placebo, and will review treatments for attention, concentration, hyperactivity, self-stimulatory behavior, irritability, aggression, self-injury, expressive and receptive language, sleep, social interaction, eye contact, toe-walking, coordination, and seizures. This lecture will help parents establish a plan to individualize treatments for their child using proven treatments, in conjunction with the child’s physician. Dr. Rossignol received his Doctorate of Medicine at the Medical College of Virginia and completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Virginia. He is a physician at the International Child Development Resource Center (ICDRC) in Melbourne, FL. The father of two children with autism, ages eight and six, he has written several papers, including four on the use of hyperbaric treatment in autism, one on the use of urinary porphyrins data in autism, one on mitochondrial dysfunction in autism, and a review article on evidence-based treatments for autism.
|
| SPEAKER Dan Rossignol, M.D., FAAFP |
2:30-3:30 |
|
The Road to Recovery: Walking with Patience, Peace, and Perseverance |
|
The pursuit of a child’s recovery requires both focus and perspective on the principles of biochemical/medical treatment of ASDs. But in addition to the intellectual demands involved, parents need strategies for caregiver survival, and an understanding of family dynamics. This talk will include crucial coping strategies for caregiver survival and a foundation for the family's recovery as well. Andrew Levinson, M.D. is an orthomolecular psychiatrist, functional physician, and yogi, having been trained "old school" by a living master, Yogi Bhajan. His approach has been featured on the Discovery Health Channel and his work in autism has been the subject of several documentaries. Dr. Levinson received his Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology and his Medical Doctorate from the University of Miami, where he also completed his psychiatric residency. His practice, Vitality Health and Wellness, is in Miami, FL.
|
| SPEAKER Andrew Levinson, M.D. |
3:30-4:00 |
|
Q&A with Afternoon Speakers |
|
| |
expandedContent_1cs38
|
|
|
|
