An article at Biomed Central states that several uncontrolled studies of hyperbaric treatment in children with autism have reported clinical improvements. Sixty-two children with autism recruited from 6 centers, ages 2-7 years were randomly assigned to 40 hourly treatments of either hyperbaric treatment at 1.3 atmosphere (atm) and 24% oxygen or slightly pressurized room air at 1.03 atm and 21% oxygen.
After 40 sessions, mean physician CGI scores significantly improved in the treatment group compared to controls in overall functioning, receptive language, social interaction, and eye contact); 9/30 children (30%) in the treatment group were rated as "very much improved" or "much improved" compared to 2/26 (8%) of controls; 24/30 (80%) in the treatment group improved compared to 10/26 (38%) of controls.
The conclusions reached through this preliminary study are that children with autism who received hyperbaric treatment at 1.3 atm and 24% oxygen for 40 hourly sessions had significant improvements in overall functioning, receptive language, social interaction, eye contact, and sensory/cognitive awareness compared to children who received slightly pressurized room air.
A slight increase in air pressure and a small increase in oxygen improved the performance of these children. Amazing outcome. Any hope for improving the lives of the autistic child and their parents is welcome news.
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