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	<title>Mental disorder Archives &#8211; Mark8ng.com</title>
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		<title>Mental Illness and importance of Family Role</title>
		<link>https://www.mark8ng.com/mental-illness-family-role/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mary Anne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Jul 2021 21:31:59 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Health & Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mental disorder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mental Illness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[psychology]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.mark8ng.com/?p=983</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Mental Illness and Family Role Introduction With the ingression of a mental illness (such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia) in a family, it is not the patient/sufferer who gets affected</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com/mental-illness-family-role/">Mental Illness and importance of Family Role</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com">Mark8ng.com</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1>Mental Illness and Family Role</h1>
<h2>Introduction</h2>
<p>With the ingression of a mental illness (such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia) in a family, it is not the patient/sufferer who gets affected alone; the family members are also impacted emotionally (and financially). Considering the unique domestic dynamics and circumstances of such a household, family members make endeavors to help the affected by seeking psychological assistance. Thus, a family system is considerably impacted when a member experiences psychological problems (May, 2018).</p>
<h2>Issues Faced by the Family</h2>
<p>Several issues could be faced by the family members while handling mental illness. In most cases, the mental illness becomes the principal focus of the family ultimately making other issues insignificant. A major issue is that such a situation creates rifts among family members as each member perceives the mental illness differently failing to think of a unanimous decision about the treatment/resolution of the illness. Almost all households wherein there is a mental illness case, the prevalence of feelings of vulnerability, frustration, hurt, and guiltiness prevails (May, 2018). It needs to be mentioned here that family structure and domestic environment play a significant role in contributing to the mental health and behavioral patterns of a person.  Non-supportive families can diminish or neglect a member’s psychological wellbeing ultimately contributing in the causation of a mental illness or its deterioration. In a majority of scenarios, psychologically victimized individuals are dependent on the support of their family. In the absence of this reliability, the entire process of recovery is affected in a negative manner (Boyd, 2018).</p>
<h2>Hereditary Mental Disorders</h2>
<p>It seems that bipolar disorders, autism, and schizophrenia affect the brain in a similar manner. For the same reason, gene activity is often analyzed by the researchers as a measure to comprehend the causative factors of such psychological states. Individuals who have particular gene variants by birth are more vulnerable to get affected by autism, schizophrenia, and other bipolar disorders (Hamzelou, 2018). It needs to be mentioned here that <strong>“scientists have discovered that no single gene is responsible for a mental disorder, several susceptibility genes may interact with one another, and the environment influences genetic expression to increase the risk of developing a mental disorder”</strong> (Ritter &amp; Lampkin, 2011)</p>
<p>When things fall apart and personal disaffection or distancing happens, it may not be a continuing process. Time heals the hurt and resentment. Similarly, motivational approach and honest efforts could be used for correcting the biased views concerning mental illness. It is the family that decides what is best for the healthiest environment within the four walls of its home. Motivated people can surprisingly change their thought processes.</p>
<h2>Awareness and Acknowledgement of the Illness</h2>
<p>Families are irreplaceable. An individual with a disturbing mental condition may get the best treatment when supported by the family. There are a number of ways family members can cope with a mental illness. To begin with, the family members need to learn and acknowledge the diagnosis. However, it is necessary to never describe the patient as the illness. Also, it is extremely important to maintain a positive relationship with the sufferer by being encouraging, supportive, and spending quality time with him/her. Most importantly, a person suffering from a mental illness needs to be understood by his/her family members as his thought process is abnormal. A family needs to be mindful of the patient’s condition and encourage him/her to participate in daily life activities. It is also indispensable to understand that such patients could employ violent means and may attempt suicides. Therefore, it is required to be aware of the nearest mental inpatient facility where the patient could be taken in such a dreadful emergency (May, 2018)</p>
<h5>References</h5>
<p>Boyd, M. (2018). <em>Psychiatric nursing: Contemporary practice</em>. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer.</p>
<p>Hamzelou, J. (2018, February 8). First glimpse of how genes may cause mental health problems. Retrieved April 15, 2019, from <a href="https://www.newscientist.com/article/2160697-first-glimpse-of-how-genes-may-cause-mental-health-problems/">https://www.newscientist.com/article/2160697-first-glimpse-of-how-genes-may-cause-mental-health-problems/</a></p>
<p>May, J. V. (2018, October 18). Mental Illness Affects the Whole Family | Pine Rest Blog. Retrieved April 14, 2019, from <a href="https://www.pinerest.org/mental-illness-affects-whole-family-blog/">https://www.pinerest.org/mental-illness-affects-whole-family-blog/</a></p>
<p>Ritter, L. A., &amp; Lampkin, S. M. (2011). <em>Community mental health</em>. Sudbury, MA: Jones &amp; Bartlett.</p>
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<p>The post <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com/mental-illness-family-role/">Mental Illness and importance of Family Role</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com">Mark8ng.com</a>.</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">983</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Huntington’s disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment</title>
		<link>https://www.mark8ng.com/huntingtons-disease-treatment/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mary Anne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 14 Mar 2021 17:19:35 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Health & Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Huntington’s Disease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mental disorder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[treatment]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.mark8ng.com/?p=654</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Huntington’s disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Introduction Huntington’s disease, also known as HD, is a rare degenerative disorder that greatly effects the central nervous system of the individual. It is often</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com/huntingtons-disease-treatment/">Huntington’s disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com">Mark8ng.com</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1>Huntington’s disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment</h1>
<h2>Introduction</h2>
<p>Huntington’s disease, also known as HD, is a rare degenerative disorder that greatly effects the central nervous system of the individual. It is often characterized by surplus and unwanted choreatic movements, unusual behavioral patterns, disturbances in the mental level and dementia. (Sheth 2013) As far as the Caucasian population is concerned, the Huntington’s disease is prevalent in one out of ten thousand persons. In a few cases, adolescents start to show symptoms of HD (known as JHD or Juvenile Huntington’s disease) before the age of twenty by demonstrating behavioral disorders and learning difficulties at school. However, chorea is the major indicator of the beginning of HD that spreads to all muscles with the passage of time. He/she, who affected from the disease, becomes severely retarded as the psychomotor processes are affected gradually also suffers decline of cognitive skills and starts experiencing mental disorder symptoms (Roos 2010).</p>
<p>If described in medical language, Huntington’s Disease is <strong>“an autosomal dominant inherited disease caused by an elongated CAG repeat (36 repeats or more) on the short arm of chromosome 4p16.3 in the Huntingtin gene”</strong> (Roos 2010). In adolescents that suffer from Juvenile Huntington’s disease, the repeat frequently goes beyond 55. The signs and clinical symptoms lay the basis for diagnosis, especially for individuals who have a parent with confirmed Huntington’s disease. The diagnosis is confirmed with the determination of DNA. Although, there is still no cure for the Huntington’s disease, the quality of life of the patients can be improved with the help of care and other available treatments. The individual with Huntington’s disease becomes completely dependent as the disease progresses and is not able to carry out even the day-to-day tasks. Death is most commonly caused by pneumonia seconded by successful suicidal attempts (Roos 2010).</p>
<p>The above chromosome map clearly shows there is a mutation in the Huntington’s disease.</p>
<h2>Causes and Risks</h2>
<p>All Huntington’s disease cases are found to be caused by the defective gene that was identified by the medical scientists in the year 1993. The huntingtin gene limitation is consisted of an added particular chemical code repeat in a minute part of chromosome 4. Normally, the huntingtin gene has a total of more or less twenty reappearances of this specific chemical code among the total codes that number three thousand around. The Huntington&#8217;s disease is caused by the chromosomal defect in which there are more than forty reappearances. For the genetic tests of the Huntington&#8217;s disease, these number of chemical codes repetitions that are present in the huntingtin protein gene of the patients are measured (Knowles 2007).</p>
<p>The actual function of the hungtin protein/gene is still a mystery to the scientists. They still don’t know about the process due to which dozens of surplus repeats in its genetic design cause the destructive indicators of Huntington&#8217;s disease. Any advancement and solution would be beneficial for the getting understandings of psychological disorders for instance Alzheimer&#8217;s, Parkinson&#8217;s disease etc. (Knowles 2007).</p>
<h2>Symptoms</h2>
<p>The symptoms of this disease may vary from person to person. There are cases when within the same family the symptoms do not match from the other family member.  In some cases, emotional and behavioral symptoms are more prominent and for others, the symptoms of involuntary movements (Lemiere 2004).  Following are some of the most common symptoms of Huntington’s disease.</p>
<h3>Emotional/Behavioral Symptoms</h3>
<p>Some of the symptoms which are usually encountered in the Huntington’s disease are anxiety, irritability, depression and apathy. Some people suffer from depression for a longer period before its recognition to be a symptom of HD. Social withdrawal, several occurrences of mood swings and impulsiveness with aggression are the behavioral changes that may show up. There are less chances of schizophrenia and other psychiatric problems in Huntington’s disease (Lemiere 2004).</p>
<h3>Cognitive/Intellectual Symptoms</h3>
<p>The very first signs of cognitive disturbance often are the slight changes in intellectual capacity. These signs are lack of ability to handle new situations and the organization of the routine matters as well. Long term memory stays well but short-term memory loss is a symptom too. The daily routine work/tasks become extremely difficult to perform (Lemiere 2004).</p>
<h3>Motor Symptoms</h3>
<p>Excessive restlessness, fidgeting, twitching are the nervous activities that are initial physical symptoms. There may be a change in the hand writing of the person. Routine activities like driving and cooking, which involve concentration and coordination, become difficult. Facial grimaces can appear as well and some involuntary movements of head and limbs. As a result, walking problem and balance maintenance can appear. During rest and taking sleep, movements decrease and the movement in stress or excitement may increase during voluntary effort (Lemiere 2004).</p>
<h2>Being at Risk for Huntington’s disease</h2>
<p>Huntington’s disease has different effects on different people so there is no particular condition/situation that makes a person defenseless to get affected by Huntington’s disease. Some people get so allergic of the topic that they even turn away from their family members as they do not wish to have discussions for their risk to have HD. On the other hand, there are a number of people who do nothing but constantly get afraid and think about being at risk to. (Weiner &amp; Lipton 2003).</p>
<p>This is important to note here that being susceptible to Huntington’s disease is rather influential for people as it has a major effect on the choices in life including marriage, family planning and job opportunities. An occurrence of awkward situation, shuddering or absentmindedness/lack of memory may be regarded as an onset of the Huntington’s disease that may have terrifying consequences for the individual and his/her family.            A good number of at-risk people show enough bravery to acknowledge the risk for Huntington’s disease. This is significantly observable when there is no accessibility of an effective treatment. Without a doubt, people choose to continue living and do not opt for taking tests as there is no cure (Weiner &amp; Lipton 2003). Currently, there is one in every ten thousand individuals in United States of America is suffering from HD. Those who are at risk to have inherited HD from a parent number more than 2.5 million. It is important to mention here that both genders are equally affected by this mental impairment disease. According to the worldwide s<strong>tatistics, e</strong>stimations reveal that 5-10 people out of every 100,000 people will suffer from HD. Children who have a parent with HD have a 50/50 chance to be at risk of inheriting it. The occurrence of the Huntington’s disease has been observed all over the world. However, there are a number of territorial groups in which Huntington’s disease is uncommonly found.</p>
<h2>Diagnosis</h2>
<p>Only a comprehensive and detailed examination of Huntington’s disease can make sure the completion of an accurate clinical diagnosis. Family history is also checked in detail. In some cases, diagnosis also involves MRI (magnetic response imaging)/CT scans (computerized tomography). However, the findings from such processes are nor sufficient to provide enough information with the help of which a proper diagnosis may be formed. In the similar manner, Huntington’s disease may also be diagnosed by conducting the genetic test of the individual, the results of which may help in the confirmation, ruling out or identification of Huntington’s disease development (DiMaio, Fox &amp; Mahoney 2010).</p>
<p>It is extremely important to mention here that if the HD gene is identified after a positive test result, this finding may not be helpful for the confirmation of HD diagnosis without a neurological examination. This is the reason why it is excessively significant to get checked up by a neurologist who is well-known with the Huntington’s disease. The efficiency of the neurologist counts a lot as HD symptoms are similar to symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, alcoholism etc. Therefore, it is really essential <strong>“to confirm that at least one affected member of the family has had the clinical diagnosis confirmed by molecular testing to provide the most accurate genetic counseling, especially if the husband would be considering molecular testing of his own Huntington disease genes”</strong> (DiMaio, Fox &amp; Mahoney 2010).</p>
<p>The HD diagnosis may prove to be a relief for some people. They consider it a blessing to know that their lack of memory is a problem and the mystery of why they keep forgetting things is finally resolved. For others, the news regarding HD diagnosis comes as an upsetting shock. A majority of people tend to deny that they have HD even after positive results as it is rather disturbing for them to accept that they have such a rare disease. For such people, the best way to cope up with the reality is to engage in discussions regarding their emotional status. They may share their feelings with a closed one, support group member or therapist.</p>
<h3>Genetic Testing</h3>
<p>A test was developed soon after the discovery of the Huntington’s disease gene in the year 1993. This test made it possible for people to get confirmed whether they carry the HD-causing gene or not. In the initial phases, the linkage analysis process was used to test people and this needed the family members to get their blood samples tested. However, with the passage of time, new tests were introduced out of which the “direct gene test” is regarded as the most appropriate and authentic. This genetic test only requires the individual who takes the test for the detection of HD gene to give his/her blood sample (Knowles 2007).</p>
<p>Thus, the tests findings revealed that the Huntington disease gene consists of a particular expanded section only found in people who have HD. On the other hand, others who do not suffer from HD have a “tri-nucleotide repeats” section in their DNA. DNA is composed of building blocks i.e. nucleotides which are represented by the alphabets C, A, G and T. As already mentioned, the CAG pattern is repeated forty times or more in people who have Huntington’s disease. The genetic test is used for the analysis of an individual’s DNA whereby the CAG numbers in his/her DNA is counted. The results of the genetic test then make it possible to tell whether there are chances of HD development or not. However, the onset of HD cannot be predicted by genetic testing. It is surprising to know that the genetic disease for Huntington’s disease offer results that are more or less ninety-nine percent accurate all the time (Kirby 1998).</p>
<p>It is an entirely personal matter to decide about undergoing genetic testing, a decision that must not be taken with a light heart. It is required of the family members to not enforce an at-risk individual to go for genetic testing. The process of testing consists of a number of sessions with several professionals. At least one session is meant for having genetic counseling, conducting a neurological exam, an interview with a psychologist, results’ discussion with the individual and family members and follow-up. The genetic test is only a blood test after which diagnosis is made.</p>
<h2>Treatment</h2>
<p>There are many ways to treat Huntington’s disease although there is still no cure for it. At the same time as no current treatments can be helpful in altering the progression of the Huntington’s disease, there are numerous medications that can be useful in the treatment of common HD symptoms like anxiety, irritation and frustration. Moreover, medications can also help in the lessening of involuntary movements. It is important to mention that a number of drugs can have disturbing side effects. This is the reason why it is the responsibility of the physician to explain them to the patient and his/her family before the beginning of the treatment.</p>
<p>Most of the give drug prescriptions to the patients for treating HD symptoms even when there is no need of it. In majority of cases, it has been observed that people who do not take drugs or take minimal drugs did better than those who took drugs in heavy doses. It happens a lot of time that drugs are helpful at one stage while they stop to have any effect on the patient’s condition at other stages. For such factors, it is often preferable for patients and their families to look for an experienced Huntington’s disease neurologist as not all of them are well-acquainted with it. It is also a good thing to keep the family physician involved in the continuing treatment. A critical role is played by both the HD patients and their families for the monitoring and assessment of the treatment effectiveness.</p>
<p>The treatment also involves physical and speech therapies so it is a good thing if both physical therapist and speech therapist are consulted. Such strategies can turn out to be really helpful in giving a positive influence to the patient and making his/her quality of life improved. In addition, the HD patients need a very well balanced diet as nutrition may have a lasting impact on their physical condition. An exceptional number of calories are needed by the HD patients for the maintenance of their body weight so the importance of diet can never be underestimated in this regard. Patients who are experiencing the last stages of HD find it really helpful to have a really good diet in order to reduce the involuntary movements (by both gaining and losing weight; depending on their physical condition). Nutritional supplements are also suggested by the nutritionists.</p>
<h2>Research</h2>
<p>Research in finding a cure for Huntington’s disease is the key. A number of ground-breaking theories have been propounded regarding the HD. The gene discovery in 1993 was the main highlight. Since that time, medical scientists have been able to discover certain brain proteins related to huntingtin protein. Currently, research is conducted for finding out the process with which the mentioned proteins combine for producing HD-causing symptoms. Scientists are also keen to find out a way to stop the proteins’ interaction as a main treatment method.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h5>References</h5>
<p>DiMaio MS, Fox JE, Mahoney MJ. 2010. Prenatal Diagnosis: Cases and Clinical Challenges [Internet]. 1. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell; [cited 2013 Nov 10] Available from: <a href="http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=Qx2cWaAk2pEC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=Prenatal+Diagnosis:+Cases+and+Clinical+Challenges&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=9jCCUufnNZOrhQfh0YDACg&amp;ved=0CC0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&amp;q=Prenatal%20Diagnosis%3A%20Cases%20and%20Clinical%20Challenges&amp;f=false">http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=Qx2cWaAk2pEC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=Prenatal+Diagnosis:+Cases+and+Clinical+Challenges&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=9jCCUufnNZOrhQfh0YDACg&amp;ved=0CC0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&amp;q=Prenatal%20Diagnosis%3A%20Cases%20and%20Clinical%20Challenges&amp;f=false</a></p>
<p>Knowles J. 2007. Huntington&#8217;s Disease [Internet]. 1. New York: Rosen Pub. Group; [cited 2013 Nov 11] Available from: <a href="http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=RX2Er7NpMSUC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=Huntington's+Disease&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=ameBUqWBDYjBhAfy9YDQCQ&amp;ved=0CEcQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&amp;q=Huntington's%20Disease&amp;f=false">http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=RX2Er7NpMSUC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=Huntington&#8217;s+Disease&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=ameBUqWBDYjBhAfy9YDQCQ&amp;ved=0CEcQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&amp;q=Huntington&#8217;s%20Disease&amp;f=false</a></p>
<p>Lemiere J. 2004. Huntington&#8217;s disease: Early Detection and Progression of Cognitive Changes in Patients and Asymptomatic Mutation Carriers [Internet]. Leuven: Leuven University Press; [cited 2013 Nov 11] Available from: <a href="http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=vdhgGGgLQSIC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=Huntington's+Disease:+Early+Detection+and+Progression+of+Cognitive+Changes+in+Patients+and+Asymptomatic+Mutation+Carriers&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=aGqBUqDzJ6XG7AbVz4CIDQ&amp;ved=0CC0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&amp;q=Huntington's%20Disease%3A%20Early%20Detection%20and%20Progression%20of%20Cognitive%20Changes%20in%20Patients%20and%20Asymptomatic%20Mutation%20Carriers&amp;f=false">http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=vdhgGGgLQSIC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=Huntington&#8217;s+Disease:+Early+Detection+and+Progression+of+Cognitive+Changes+in+Patients+and+Asymptomatic+Mutation+Carriers&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=aGqBUqDzJ6XG7AbVz4CIDQ&amp;ved=0CC0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&amp;q=Huntington&#8217;s%20Disease%3A%20Early%20Detection%20and%20Progression%20of%20Cognitive%20Changes%20in%20Patients%20and%20Asymptomatic%20Mutation%20Carriers&amp;f=false</a></p>
<p>Roos R. 2010. Huntington&#8217;s Disease: A Clinical Review. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases [Internet]. [cited 2013 Nov 12] 5:40. Available from: <a href="http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/1750-1172-5-40.pdf">http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/1750-1172-5-40.pdf</a></p>
<p>Sheth K. 2013. Huntington&#8217;s Disease [Internet]. A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia; [2011 April 30, cited 2013 Nov 11]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001775/</p>
<p>Weiner  MF, Lipton AM. 2003. The Dementias: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Research [Internet]. 3rd. Washington(DC): American Psychiatric Pub; [cited 2013 Nov 12] Available from: <a href="http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=3h3YxCtmoRsC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=The+Dementias:+Diagnosis,+Treatment,+and+Research&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=LOqBUq6MGuv07Ab3rIGYCA&amp;ved=0CC0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&amp;q=The%20Dementias%3A%20Diagnosis%2C%20Treatment%2C%20and%20Research&amp;f=false">http://books.google.com.pk/books?id=3h3YxCtmoRsC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=The+Dementias:+Diagnosis,+Treatment,+and+Research&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=LOqBUq6MGuv07Ab3rIGYCA&amp;ved=0CC0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&amp;q=The%20Dementias%3A%20Diagnosis%2C%20Treatment%2C%20and%20Research&amp;f=false</a></p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">654</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>Autism Disease and The Irresponsible Behavior of Parents </title>
		<link>https://www.mark8ng.com/autism-disease-and-parents/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mary Anne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 14 Mar 2021 17:18:35 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Health & Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Autism Disease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mental disorder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Parents' Irresponsibility]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wakefield’s Theory]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Autism Disease and The Irresponsible Behavior of Parents Autism Disease Autism can be best described as a “developmental disability resulting from a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com/autism-disease-and-parents/">Autism Disease and The Irresponsible Behavior of Parents </a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mark8ng.com">Mark8ng.com</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1>Autism Disease and The Irresponsible Behavior of Parents</h1>
<h2>Autism Disease</h2>
<p>Autism can be best described as a <strong>“developmental disability resulting from a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain”</strong> (&#8220;autism,&#8221; 2013). A person is considered as autistic when he/she has an unusual and atypical development of communication skillfulness, societal dexterity and reasoning. This condition is more common in men than women. An autistic child reveals the symptoms of autism at the age of two to three years. They can be identified as autistic even before the mentioned age group (&#8220;autism,&#8221; 2013).</p>
<h2>Controversy Between Autism and Vaccination</h2>
<p>The controversy over the association between autism and childhood vaccinations is still a hot topic since the idea was published in 1998 by Andrew Wakefield, a British researcher and gastroenterologist, in <em>The Lancet</em>. According to him, <strong>the MMR (a very common vaccine for children) that is used to help children fight against measles, mumps and rubella, was perhaps the cause of increasing rates of autism.</strong> After a research of fourteen years, his theory was debunked by numerous experts as an unsubstantiated one. They rejected his idea in 2012 claiming it as ‘bad science’ as they were not successful in finding any legitimate association between autism and vaccinations (childhood). However, the controversy has not reached to any conclusion and a lot of parents still think of vaccinations as a frightful step for their children safety (Mattson, 2000). After the so-called &#8220;discovery&#8221; by Wakefield, some parents made a declaration that several vaccines contain a mercury-containing preservative which was the main cause of autism. On the other hand, it has been testified by scientists over and over again that childhood vaccines are not harmful and autism is not a result of childhood vaccinations. Nevertheless, parents have continued to be fearful of vaccines (Offit, 2010).</p>
<h3>Unknown Cause of Disease</h3>
<p>The rejection couldn’t help to recover the damage that Wakefield’s theory had done. The world witnessed a drop in immunization rates and rise in disease rates. Despite the fact that autism is not caused by childhood vaccinations, the medical researchers and other concerned groups are still confused about the autism causes and the increasing autism rates. There is no one who can claim to know the root cause of this mental disorder due to which a child is unable to communicate, interact and reason appropriately and normally (Mattson, 2000). In some cases, the possible causes of autism are identified to be <strong>“prenatal factors such as exposure to rubella, or chromosomal abnormalities such as Down&#8217;s syndrome, or postnatal factors such as infantile spasms and herpes simplex, encephalitis”</strong> (Mattson, 2000). However, the theory that has gained popularity regarding the causes of autism is connected to a genetic variant that triggers in the womb of the mother by a toxin/virus found in the environment (Mattson, 2000).</p>
<h3>Wakefield’s Theory’s Noted Points</h3>
<p>The advocates of Wakefield&#8217;s theory consider it as an authentic and plausible theory due to the autism-occurrence timing. They support the theory for the reason that the communication and behavioral problems that are demonstrated by a child are easily observable around the same age when he/she gets his/her vaccination shots that also include the MMR. Another reason that is given by the advocates of Wakefield’s theory for its credibility is that autism rates have increased apparently in the recent years. Although, this abnormal brain disability was described in 1943, its prevalence was never studied or published as far as United States is concerned. The USA officials always depended on the estimates of researchers or the studies conducted in other countries.</p>
<h3>Wakefield’s Theory Effect on Parents</h3>
<p>The Wakefield’s Theory is also supported by a lot of parents whose experiences convinced them that their children became autistic with the involvement of the vaccines. Although no scientific theory supports the Andrew Wakefield’s Theory, there is a clear increase in the disease rates that consequently dropped the vaccination rates. On the other hand, experts firmly believe that immunizations are the most significant achievement in pediatrics (Mattson, 2000).<br />
Wakefield’s Theory Rejected By U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<br />
As far as the credibility of Wakefield&#8217;s theory is concerned, it was rejected by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The reason was simple. The research group that was led by Andrew Wakefield was not able to find the symptoms of any measles virus in the autistic patients’ bowel tissues (in subsequent studies). The Wakefield Theory also lost its authenticity when about five hundred children and teens were studied by the British government as a response. The results debunked the theory completely as no evidence was obtained in the months after vaccination regarding the regression of children&#8217;s behavior towards autistic symptoms. The children did not even show any increased likelihood to become autistic within two years of MMR reception (Mattson, 2000).</p>
<h3>Conclusion of the Controversy</h3>
<p>To cut a long story short, no casual relationship has been found between autism and some specific vaccinations that are necessary during childhood period. It has been found out that the immune system of an infant possesses the capability of giving response to a profusion of immunologic stimuli. From the time of birth, babies experience an exposure to innumerable viruses and antigens that have no association with vaccination. According to the studies conducted in this regard, it has been concluded that the autism spectrum disorder has no connection with vaccines and their consequent immunological stimulation, especially during the first two years of an infant’s life. It is extremely important for parents to understand that their children are receiving safe and helpful vaccines (“Vaccine Safety: Vaccines Not Associated with Risk of Autism,” 2013).</p>
<h2>Public Behavior Towards the Vaccination</h2>
<p>Despite the fact that autism development and its association with childhood vaccinations have been debunked by the CDC, the WHO and the Institute of Medicine, people are still reluctant to vaccinate their children even in the contemporary times. This is why it is exceedingly important to convince the public completely regarding the importance and safety of childhood vaccinations and their appropriate schedule. The false prophets of the modern times are responsible for misleading the public so egregiously. Even the famous celebrities and other opportunists have exploited the use of vaccinations and have manipulated the science in the mass media (Offit, 2010). It is crystal clear that this failed notion regarding the association of autism and vaccines has impacted the general public health in a number of ways.</p>
<h3>Parents’ Irresponsibility</h3>
<p>The non-vaccination of school children may result in devastating consequences. This is because children vaccination has turned out as one of the most useful and significant health intervention of the modern times. Vaccinations have proved to have significant impacts on the health of children next to pure and clean water and proper sanitation. It is rather unfortunate that thousands and thousands of parents are against getting their children vaccinated. In a majority of cases, children who are not vaccinated still attend school as their personal, parental, religious, and philosophical and other so-called beliefs give them the advantage of exemptions. However, such an attitude needs to be discouraged at all levels as it is the  responsibility of the parents to take all the essential steps in preventing their children from becoming a cause of infectious diseases’ spread. This is because children who are not vaccinated pose harm to others. It is the high time that parent s understand that countless lives have been saved by vaccines. Instead of worrying about the adverse effects of vaccines, parents must make sure that their children are vaccinated against a number of fatal diseases (&#8220;Necessary Shots? Childhood Vaccinations,&#8221; 1999).</p>
<p>The philosophical grounds that parents present to refuse vaccinations are not basically referred towards their religious beliefs. Instead, they refuse vaccines as they do not want the governmental authorities to get involved in their children’s medical care. It is, however, not the sign of being good citizens as the child who is not vaccinated persists to be a threat to the health of others around him/her. Similarly, when an individual decides to reject vaccination; he/she poses threat to the whole society. When a community has a high rate of vaccination, the rate of diseases is rather low as members are not frequently exposed to a pathogen. This is referred to as herd immunity. It can be described as the <strong>“form of immunity that occurs when the vaccination of a significant portion of a population (or herd) provides a measure of protection for individuals who have not developed immunity”</strong> (&#8220;Immunise Now &#8216;Or Else&#8217;,&#8221; 2013). People who rely on the theory of herd immunity, if truth be told, adopt an unconvinced and questioning strategy for personal protection as the extra benefits of herd immunity are lost if a majority of people refuse to get vaccinations.</p>
<h3>Consequences of Parents’ Irresponsibility</h3>
<p>Parents who choose not to get their vaccinated are in fact responsible of creating a pool of kids who are at risk of catching and spreading the transmissible diseases. In some cases, a child may be lucky enough to catch a mild disease, but it is equally factual that parents who refuse to get their children immunized are taking a chance with the life of their children as well as other children (&#8220;David Banks Column: Herd,&#8221; 2004).</p>
<h4>Conclusion</h4>
<p>To cut a long story short, the future generations are protected by immunization. It has been proved that a lot of diseases have been reduced and eliminated due to the introduction of vaccines. The best example in this regard is that of small pox. The disease was once a menace but the small pox vaccination has eradicated the disease all over the world. This is the reason why children are not vaccinated for small pox as the disease no longer exists. With the continuation and completion of the vaccinations, it is expected that the future generations won’t get harmed by the diseases that are present today (&#8220;Vaccination Saves Lives; Previously,&#8221; 2012).</p>
<p>According to a WHO estimate, immunization saves more or less 3 million lives annually. Therefore, it is exceedingly important for all babies and children to have full immunization so that they can be protected from serious diseases. As far as parents are concerned, they should discuss all their worries regarding vaccinations with their medical physicians and other concerned medical advisors (&#8220;Vaccination Saves Lives; Previously,&#8221; 2012).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h5>References</h5>
<p><a href="/www.questia.com/read/1E1-autism/autism">autism. (2013). <em>Questia</em>. Retrieved November 26, 2013, from http://www.questia.com/read/1E1-autism/autism</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.bibme.org/">David Banks Column: Herd Mentality That Could Damage the Whole Flock. (2004, April 6). <em>Daily Post</em>, p. 08. Retrieved November 27, 2013, from http://www.questia.com/read/1G1-114978183/david-banks-column-herd-mentality-that-could-damage</a></p>
<p><a href="/www.questia.com/read/1G1-349257179/immunise-now-or-else">Immunise Now &#8216;Or Else&#8217;. (2013, October 21).<em>The Morning Bulletin </em>. Retrieved November 27, 2013, from http://www.questia.com/read/1G1-349257179/immunise-now-or-else</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.bibme.org/">Mattson, M. (2000, July 11). Autism on Rise as Researchers Struggle to Find Its Cause. <em>The Florida Times Union</em>. Retrieved November 27, 2013, from http://www.questia.com/read/1G1-63926534/autism-on-rise-as-researchers-struggle-to-find-its</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.bibme.org/">Necessary Shots? Childhood Vaccinations Have Saved Countless Lives. but Some Parents Worry about Adverse Effects. What You Should Know. (1999, September 13). <em>Newsweek</em>, <em>134 (11)</em>, 73. Retrieved November 27, 2013, from http://www.questia.com/read/1G1-55694002/necessary-shots-childhood-vaccinations-have-saved</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.bibme.org/">Offit, P. A. (2010). <em>Autism&#8217;s False Prophets: Bad Science, Risky Medicine, and the Search for a Cure</em>. New York : Columbia University Press.</a> Print.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bibme.org/">Vaccination Saves Lives; Previously Deadly Diseases Are Now under Control Thanks to the Advent of Vaccination. but Any Drop in Take-Up Can Allow Them to Return. (2012, March 27). <em>Daily Post</em>, p. 14. Retrieved November 27, 2013, from http://www.questia.com/read/1G1-284276448/vaccination-saves-lives-previously-deadly-diseases</a></p>
<p><a href="%20Vaccines%20Not%20Associated%20With%20Risk%20of%20Autism.%20(2013,%20March%2029).Centers%20for%20Disease%20Control%20and%20Prevention.%20Retrieved%20November%2026,%202013,%20from ">Vaccine Safety: Vaccines Not Associated With Risk of Autism. (2013, March 29).<em>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</em>. Retrieved November 26, 2013, from </a><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Concerns/Autism/antigens.html">http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Concerns/Autism/antigens.html</a></p>
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