The Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health and the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network

Over 10 years, the Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health (AIR-P) and the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network (ATN) have collaborated to produce much of the material presented in this supplement and have been pioneers in bringing attention to the medical needs of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and related conditions. Whereas, until recently, medical complaints (eg, abdominal pain, poor sleep, or disruptive behaviors) were typically considered part of the disorder and therefore not requiring specific attention, today clinicians throughout the country directly assess and treat these associated conditions. The combined AIR-P/ATN network has developed systematic ways to assess and treat coexisting conditions, focusing on those for which management was previously highly variable or sporadic and has shared those methods broadly with the larger parent and professional communities. The active involvement of families and young people with ASD has helped the network identify key issues for individuals and families and focus its attention accordingly. Although clinicians may have limited new, evidence-based options for treating autism directly, they now have systematic ways to evaluate and manage coexisting conditions. In turn, families have learned about new ways to help their children and improve their functioning and outcomes.