JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The world’s largest study on autism spectrum disorders is partnering with the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) and other health institutions to reach more families from underrepresented groups. We are cooperating.
Children’s of Mississippi, UMMC’s pediatric division, is one of five locations in the United States dedicated to helping more African American families participate in the SPARK study. Officials said increasing the participation of underrepresented groups is essential to SPARK’s goal of better understanding the genetic causes of autism.
SPARK also supports the work of all researchers and strives to develop culturally relevant engagement among different communities.
“Individuals with autism (ASD) and their families can participate in SPARK through Mississippi Children’s Center’s Youth Development Center,” said Dr. Gabriel Banks, assistant professor of child development. “SPARK’s recruitment efforts are both proactive and reactive. To increase the number of families participating in research from underrepresented groups, our team makes phone calls and hosts community outreach programs. I do things like that.”
SPARK includes more than 100,000 people with ASD and 175,000 family members. More than 30 major medical centers across the country have joined his SPARK to help support individuals and families affected by ASD.
Founded in 2011, the Center for Youth Advancement (CAY) provides interdisciplinary, coordinated care to children with behavioral or developmental challenges throughout the state from its facility in the Highland Bluff Building in northeast Jackson. It offers.
Another goal of SPARK is to provide a transparent and trusting research environment and experience for all participants and their families.
Independent adults diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder and legal guardians of people diagnosed with ASD can participate in SPARK Online. To participate in this study, you will need to provide DNA through a saliva sample or cheek swab, which can be mailed or dropped off at the Center for Youth Development (CAY).
UMMC is conducting a second 18-month grant round, each funded by an additional $120,000 grant.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Surveillance Network estimates that approximately 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socio-economic groups.
UMMC is partnering with the Color of Autism Foundation to host a Family Resource Fair this fall.
