Promoting Positive Health Outcomes in an Urban Community-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Preschool Aged Children on the Autism Spectrum.
Leah R KetchesonKerri L StaplesEdward Andrew PitchfordFranziska LoetznerPublished in: Journal of autism and developmental disorders (2021)
While there is wide consensus regarding the importance of early intervention, health is rarely considered within priorities. Twenty-five children on the autism spectrum (Mage = 4.67, SD = 0.82) participated in a 12-week physical activity intervention. Primary objective was to examine impact of a physical activity intervention on physical activity, fitness and motor competence. Secondary objective was to examine associations between motor behavior and ASD symptoms. Ball skills (p < .001) and isometric push-up performance (p = .02) improved. Autism symptoms were associated with motor skills (r > - .49, p < .05). Study outcomes provide new knowledge regarding design, delivery, and measures for early interventions targeting health disparities in young children on the autism spectrum.
Keyphrases
- physical activity
- autism spectrum disorder
- intellectual disability
- randomized controlled trial
- healthcare
- sleep quality
- public health
- body mass index
- young adults
- attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- mental health
- clinical trial
- health information
- adipose tissue
- body composition
- study protocol
- social media
- weight loss
- insulin resistance
- metabolic syndrome
- cancer therapy
- placebo controlled