Indiana Psychological Association News

PsychByte: SPARK Autism Research Initiative

SPARK Autism Research Initiative 

The prevalence of autism has increased over the past 20 years. While this increase may be partially due to increased awareness and broadening diagnostic criteria, one thing is certain: many individuals and families are impacted daily by autism. Today, the causes of autism are still not certain, but most researchers now believe both genetic and environmental factors contribute to this neurodevelopmental disorder.
 
A new nation-wide initiative, known as SPARK, was launched in April with the primary goal to connect families impacted by autism to research opportunities that will contribute to advancement in understanding autism. Ideally, 50,000 individuals with autism will have the opportunity to provide a saliva sample for DNA analysis in addition to other medical and behavioral data. Twenty-one clinical sites across the nation are involved in this initiative to learn more about the causes of autism, particularly the genes and environmental factors that contribute to this disorder. Researchers hope findings from this initiative will lead to new supports and treatments to improve the quality of life for those with autism.
 
For more information about SPARK, visit their website: https://sparkforautism.org
 
Contributor:
Chelsey Brophy, Ph.D.
Psychologist, Children’s Resource Group