Reports on sources of lead contamination in the environment of children. Proposes some solutions and presents statistics that relate poverty and lead contamination. (DDR)

This article explores the association of medical and psychiatric conditions with Asperger syndrome, based mainly on publications from the last two decades. It examines comorbidity of Asperger syndrome with mood disorders, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, tic disorders, violence and aggression,…

The paper discusses issues of concern to early childhood special educators serving on hospital ethics committees to assist families with seriously ill and handicapped infants in neonatal intensive care units. Issues include infant euthanasia and the right to life, child abuse legislation, and possible effects on families. (Author/JDD)

The keynote address of a November, 1988, symposium on developmental disabilities and the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) examines four basic areas of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) concern in Congress: research, education, testing and discrimination protection, and health care services. (DB)

The Chronically Ill Infant Intervention Project at Georgetown University (Washington, D.C.) initiates treatment in the special care nursery for chronically ill infants and infants with multiple health problems. The project's interdisciplinary team provides developmental evaluations, direct intervention in the hospital and in the home, and parent…

Outlines the major barriers to independent living faced by disabled persons in communities, and suggests alternatives. Utilizes quantitative data from a survey of 13,000 disabled persons in 319 communities in 10 states and qualitative data from local town meetings and public forums. (FMW)

Developmental assessment of newborns and young infants exposed to cocaine in utero suggest abnormal state control and orientation and dysfunction in motor control. Intervention should include parent education on careful positioning, handling, and feeding to improve infants' movement patterns and long-term followup by health care professionals for…

Examines the way that feeding and nutrition concerns of children with disabilities are addressed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; includes two case studies of families who received nutritional services for their young children (ages one and two) with disabilities. The role of the nutritionist is considered. (Author/SW)

The survey discussed here examined current school experiences with Human Immunodeficiency Virus-infected children. Superintendents, school board chairs, and heads of school health services completed the surveys. Results indicated a general earnestness of purpose by school systems. (SM)

This case study reports on an 11-year-old boy with multiple exceptionalities. The child was verbally gifted, learning disabled in mathematics, and health impaired. He had received homebound instruction throughout his elementary school years. Qualitative research methods were used to explore the subject's learning characteristics and educational…

Children of Hispanic migrant farmworkers are more susceptible to health problems than children in the general population. This paper discusses the common health problems seen in these children, highlighting special health needs of preschoolers pertinent to this multicultural population. Implications for professional preparation in health education…

A statewide survey of 1,574 Texas public school nurses examined the characteristics, needs, and involvement of nurses in the health and education management of students with special health care needs (SSHCN). Although the nurses have responsibility for a range of health services delivered to SSHCN, only 32 percent of respondents reported routine…

Evaluated the impact of chronic illness on the psychological functioning and social behavior of adolescent patients. A questionnaire was given to thalassaemics (n=90) and a control group (n=100) investigating coping strategies in stressful situations. Study supports hypothesis that chronic illness does not necessarily imply psychopathologies, but…

Reviews the effects of prenatal exposure to the following: (1) cigarettes; (2) alcohol; (3) heroin; (4) narcotics; (5) marijuana; and (6) cocaine. Also discussed are the effects of exposure to multiple drugs and research issues in assessing drug effects. The importance of environment in long-term outcome is emphasized. (SLD)

This article reviews the legal issues raised when parents request that early intervention professionals implement Do Not Resuscitate orders for their young children with special health care needs. The article explores divergent viewpoints, recommends administrative procedures, and calls for open discussion of the issues and development of clear…