Why Early Screening for Autism Is Essential in Underserved Communities

Leave a comment October 7, 2025 Larrell Wilkinson

by Tiana Lopez | UAB Community Health and Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com

Every parent wants the best for their child. But for many families in Alabama, getting an autism diagnosis can be harder than it should be. Research shows that Black children are often diagnosed with autism two to three years later than white children, despite showing symptoms at the same age (Mandell et al., 2009). These delays result in missed opportunities for early intervention. This support can drastically improve a child’s ability to communicate, learn, and thrive.

In Alabama, especially in rural or underserved communities, parents face multiple barriers to getting a timely diagnosis. Some are unfamiliar with early autism signs such as poor eye contact, delayed speech, repetitive behaviors, or lack of social interest (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023). Others may be discouraged from seeking help, told to “wait and see,” or lack access to a qualified specialist. Even when parents do recognize the signs, they often encounter long waitlists, high costs, or too few autism-focused providers in their area. These obstacles can feel overwhelming (Constantino et al., 2020). One researcher noted, “Autism spectrum disorder remains underdiagnosed in minority populations, despite evidence of comparable symptom presentation” (Constantino et al., 2020, p. 3). This highlights that the problem is not rooted in the children themselves but in systemic inequities.

Early Intervention Makes a Difference
The earlier autism is identified, the earlier a child can begin receiving services that build critical skills. Studies confirm that early intervention, ideally before the age of three, leads to improved language, social, and behavioral outcomes (Zwaigenbaum et al., 2015). That is why early screening is essential, particularly for families in underserved communities where systemic barriers are more common.

Practical Steps for Families
If you are a parent or caregiver of a young child in Alabama, here are two steps you can take right now:

Ask your child’s pediatrician about developmental and autism screening. These can be done during regular checkups starting at 18 months.
Reach out to Alabama’s Early Intervention System. This program offers free evaluations and services for children under three. A doctor’s referral is not required to get started (Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, 2023).

Getting a diagnosis should not depend on race/ethnicity, income, or ZIP code. With awareness, persistence, and support, families can overcome barriers and get their children the help they deserve. Equity in healthcare begins with timely diagnosis and access to resources for every child. To advocate for more autism resources in your community, you can join and support local and national organizations like the Autism Society and the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), attend and volunteer at community events, and share your story on social media. If you like, please consider sharing your experience with the Wilkinson Wellness Lab on Facebook.

References
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. (2023). Early Intervention Program. https://rehab.alabama.gov/individuals-and-families/early-intervention

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Data and statistics on autism spectrum disorder. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html

Constantino, J. N., Abbacchi, A. M., Saulnier, C., Klaiman, C., Mandell, D. S., Zhang, Y., … & Molholm, S. (2020). Timing of the diagnosis of autism in African American children. Pediatrics, 146(3), e20193629. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-3629

Mandell, D. S., Wiggins, L. D., Carpenter, L. A., Daniels, J., DiGuiseppi, C., Durkin, M. S., … & Kirby, R. S. (2009). Racial/ethnic disparities in the identification of children with autism spectrum disorders. American Journal of Public Health, 99(3), 493–498. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2007.131243

Zwaigenbaum, L., Bauman, M. L., Choueiri, R., Kasari, C., Carter, A., Granpeesheh, D., … & Pierce, K. (2015). Early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder under 3 years of age: Recommendations for practice and research. Pediatrics, 136(Supplement_1), S60–S81. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2014-3667E

Balancing Screen Time for Healthier Family Connections

Leave a comment October 6, 2025 Wilkinson Wellness Lab

by Tiana Lopez | UAB Community Health and Human Services Program (Student)

In many homes across the Southeast, families may spend evenings under the same roof yet feel worlds apart, each absorbed in their own screens. Phones, tablets, and televisions can provide entertainment and even educational opportunities, but when they begin to replace conversations and shared activities, the impact on parent–child relationships can be concerning.

Studies show that when parents spend too much time on their phones during family activities, they become less emotionally responsive to their children. This lack of responsiveness can leave children feeling overlooked or unimportant and over time may weaken trust and closeness (American Psychological Association, 2025). A recent review also found a two-way relationship between screen use and children’s well-being. Excessive screen time can contribute to emotional and behavioral difficulties, while children who already struggle emotionally are more likely to use screens as a way to cope (Ebert, 2025).

The Southeast is known for its close-knit communities and strong family values, but heavy screen use has the potential to interfere with these traditions of connection. When children feel like devices are competing with them for their parents’ attention, it affects their sense of security and belonging. These feelings can spill into other areas of life, influencing school motivation, friendships, and emotional health.

Fortunately, technology does not need to divide families. The key is balance. Parents can model healthy habits by creating intentional device-free times. Eating meals together without screens or planning one evening each week for family activities such as games, outdoor walks, or simple conversation can reinforce that family time matters. These small steps help children feel valued and show that relationships are a priority.

Parents sometimes worry that children will resist screen limits or that routines will be disrupted. However, research shows that when changes are explained with warmth and consistency, children adapt more quickly than expected. Framing these new routines as fun opportunities for connection rather than as restrictions makes children more willing to participate (Nagata et al., 2024).

Screens are a permanent part of modern life, but they do not have to dominate relationships. By setting aside moments for genuine connection, parents can strengthen bonds, improve communication, and reassure their children that they are more important than any device.

As a parent, how do you ensuring engaging with your children and managing your screen time? As a child, how do you unplug and ensure that you are not spending too much time on screen? Please share your comments below and engage with the article at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab on Facebook.

References:

Screen time and emotional problems in kids: A vicious circle? (2025, June 9). https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2025/06/screen-time-problems-children?utm_source=

Morgan Ebert, Managing Editor. (2025, June 13). Study links screen time to socioemotional problems in children, with bidirectional effects. Contemporary Pediatrics.
https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/study-links-screen-time-to-socioemotional-problems-in-children-with-bidirectional-effects?utm_source=

Nagata, J. M., Paul, A., Yen, F., Smith-Russack, Z., Shao, I. Y., Al-Shoaibi, A. a. A., Ganson, K. T., Testa, A., Kiss, O., He, J., & Baker, F. C. (2024). Associations between media parenting practices and early adolescent screen use. Pediatric Research. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-024-03243-y

Addressing substance misuse among young people: Supporting brighter futures

Leave a comment March 2, 2024 Wilkinson Wellness Lab

By Haleigh Horton | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Student

Substance use among teenagers and adults is a serious public health issue that affects an individual’s health as well as the health of their families and communities. In 2022, an estimated 48.7 million individuals twelve and older had a substance use disorder, including 29.5 million experiencing alcohol use disorder (AUD) and 27.2 million experiencing drug use disorder (DUD), according to the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Teenagers and young adults may be particularly susceptible to the influence of drugs due to a variety of social, economic, and environmental factors (Morin, 2022). As a result of teenage and young adult substance abuse, it is important for society to promote healthy behaviors among youth, it is essential to implement preventive measures and interventions to combat the health and social issue.

According to the CDC (2022), young people may be at risk for substance use if experiencing risk factors like:

Family history of substance use
Favorable parental attitudes towards the behavior
Poor parental monitoring
Parental substance use
Family rejection of sexual orientation or gender identity
Association with delinquent or substance using peers
Lack of school connectedness
Low academic achievement
Childhood sexual abuse
Mental health issues

School-based preventive programs should be encouraged in our nation’s middle and high schools. These programs may promote positive peer relationships and effective decision-making, while educating them about the risks and consequences of substance abuse. Moreover, students can develop resilience and coping skills needed to navigate adolescence and resist substance abuse by incorporating social-emotional learning elements, such as empathy and self-awareness (ICF, 2022). It is also important for communities to provide support and resources for teenagers and their families by engaging local community organizations, religious institutions, and local leaders in an effort to create awareness about teenage drug use, as well as provide support and resources for those too (ICF, 2022). Counseling services, peer support groups, and recreational activities are also needed supports to address drug use among teenager and young adults (SAMHSA, 2023). Effective strategies to prevent drug use among young individuals is critical to ensuring the well-being of our communities.

We can help teenagers and young adults have a healthier future by implementing evidence-based prevention programs, creating supportive environments, and providing them with essential skills and resources. Advocacy and community involvement are essential to overcoming substance abuse challenges and fostering positive outcomes for future generations. So what do you think? Have you benefited from programming in schools? In college? Share here and on our Facebook page @Phame.US.Impact.

References:

Drug-free communities program successes | drug overdose | CDC injury center. (2023, October 23). https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/drug-free-communities/program-success.html

HHS SAMSHA release 2022 national survey on drug use and health data. (2023, November 13). https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/20231113/hhs-samhsa-release-2022-nsduh-data

High risk substance use in youth | adolescent and school health | CDC. (2023, March 24). https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/substance-use/index.htm

ICF (2022). Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program National Cross-Site Evaluation: End-of-Year 2022 Report. Washington, DC: Office of National Drug Control Policy.

Morin, A. (2022, January 9). Is your teen using drugs? look for these warning signs. Verywell Family. https://www.verywellfamily.com/teen-drug-use-
warning-signs-2606192

Parents and schools can work together to improve adolescent mental health

Leave a comment March 1, 2024 Wilkinson Wellness Lab

By Travia Martin | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Although thought to be light and carefree, the adolescent years leading into adulthood are significant to the development of a child and their preparation into adulthood. From physical health, emotional health, mental health and other domains of wellness, these years are important as young people begin to take on adult like responsibilities. According to World Health Organization (n.d.), children ages 10-19 at some point may experience health issues related to the following poor hygiene, partaking in behaviors involving alcohol and drug use, unsafe sex, abuse, and teen pregnancy. While every area of health is important for the proper development of adolescents, mental health may be one of the categories often overlooked and underserved. For example, depression and anxiety have the most impact on this age group in relation to illness with suicide being the leading cause of death among those 15-19 (WHO, 2023). 1.1 million adolescents die each year, whether it be traffic accidents, violence, or self-inflicted harm.

School health programs should be championed and supported in middle and high schools to support adolescent development. Why? First, we should consider that in the U.S., fifty-six million students spend at least 6 hours a day at school, receiving social, physical, and intellectual development (CDC, 2021). Within your community, are you aware of the programs, activities, and group organizations that offer support to your middle and high school adolescence? Supplying mental health support and assistance within schools may elevate awareness, guidance and understanding of such complex health issues among adolescents. Additionally, social media plays a role in adolescent development, because young people see and do what they are taught or have learned, picked up through observational learning while constantly viewing social media on their electronic devices.

Whether you are a parent or an educator, there are several behaviors you can implement into your home, school, organization, etc. to help support and aid the development of adolescents and their mental health. Minor changes like spending more time engaging with young people through face-to-face conversation and allowing them to express their feelings mentally and emotionally, can aid positively to overall health and well-being (CDC, 2021). Removing teens and young adults from environments or locations that are toxic and filled with trauma to more peaceful and positive environments are also important. Supporting pro-social behaviors to express ones emotions such as art, writing, or even support groups involving peers of the same age is also important. Adolescent therapy and counseling are additional tools that can support the development of their mental health and create positive influence among their behaviors and actions (CDC, 2021).

What about you? Did you experience tough times during your adolescent years? What tips would you give to teenagers and young adults today? Leave a comment here or join the discussion at @WilkinsonWellnessLab on Facebook.

References:

Adolescent and young adult health. (n.d.). Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescents-health-risks-and-solutions#:~:text=Depression%20and%20anxiety%20are%20among

CDC. (2021, April 23). Mental health of children and parents—A strong connection. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/features/mental-health-children-and-parents.html

COVID-19 Pandemic Associated with Worse Mental Health and Accelerated Brain Development in Adolescents. (2023, January 26). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2023/covid-19-pandemic-associated-with-worse-mental-health-and-accelerated-brain-development-in-adolescents#:~:text=The%20two%20groups%20differed%20significantly

National Library of Medicine. (2022). CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH. In http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK587174/

Why schools? | adolescent and school health | CDC. (2021, June 8). https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/about/why_schools.htm

Healthy habits while enjoying fun in the sun

Leave a comment February 18, 2024 Wilkinson Wellness Lab

By Haleigh Horton | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Student

As we approach spring and then move into the summer, it is important to begin considering again our exposure to the sun. Did you know that the beautiful rays that we get from sunlight may also pose a risk to yours and your child’s skin? Focusing on children, it is important to learn how sunshine can affect your child’s skin and learn simple steps to protect them. From wearing protective clothing to using sunscreen, these practices can safeguard your family from harm and promote a healthier sunshine habits. Specific to southern United States, where the sun’s warmth is abundant, it’s vital to be aware of the potential risks posed to children’s delicate skin from harmful UV exposure. Extended sun exposure can lead to various health issues, particularly for children with sensitive skin. The risks go beyond sunburn, encompassing long-term consequences such as premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

To protect children, proactive measures like wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours are important. Embracing sun protection practices ensures the enjoyment of the outdoors while minimizing potential harm to young skin, promoting a healthier future for our little ones. To turn these practices into habits, it is important to incorporate sun protection measures into your daily routine. Wearing protective clothing and adding sunscreen through daily when applying lotion not only reduce the risk of skin cancer, including severe forms like melanoma, but also prevent sunburn, signaling skin damage. Additionally, embracing sun protection promotes
overall skin health by maintaining moisture, preventing dryness, and minimizing premature aging. Sun protection is regarded has not only a benefit to ones long term health, but also is recognized as a part of one self-care regimen. Thusly, wearing wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves, becomes a proactive measure against harmful UV rays. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (i.e., 30 SPF or higher) before outdoor activities (i.e., including school or extracurricular activities) offers an additional layer of defense. Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., becomes a strategic choice to minimize direct sun exposure.

As parents in the South, protecting our children from sun exposure is vital. During spring and summer months, let’s remember to cover up, use the right sunscreen, and be
mindful of peak sunlight hours. Understanding the risks of skin cancer and premature aging highlights the importance of consistent sun protection. By prioritizing sun safety, we contribute to our children’s long-term wellbeing, shaping a healthier future. Let’s champion our kids health together, ensuring our children thrive while under the sun and foster a culture of skin health awareness. For more information about, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website on sun safety here. Do you have additional sun safe tips to share? If so, please share in the comments section here and/or share on a Facebook page @WilkinsonWellnessLab.

References

American Academy of Dermatology Association (n.d.). Sunscreen FAQs. https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen

Raymond-Lezman, J. R., & Riskin, S. (2023). Attitudes, Behaviors, and Risks of Sun Protection to Prevent Skin Cancer Amongst Children, Adolescents, and Adults. Cureus, 15(2), e34934. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.34934

Salvado, M., Fraga, A., Marques, D. L., Pires, I. M., Gonçalves, C. C., & Silva, N. M. (2021).
Sun Exposure in Pediatric Age: Perspective of Caregivers. Children (Basel, Switzerland),
8(11), 1019. https://doi.org/10.3390/children8111019

SickKids staff. (2024). What’s the best way to protect kids’ skin from sunburn?
HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/ask-the-pediatrician/Pages/whats-the-best-way-toprotect-kids-skin-from-sunburn.aspx

How to help someone having a heat stroke, and how to avoid having one yourself.

Inflation Impacts Healthy Eating

Leave a comment August 6, 2023 abenko2016

By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Inflation impacts how expensive items become over time due to factors such as demand and cost expectations. It is considered a challenge since it creates the platform for the increase in the price of necessities. Thus, inflation is directly correlated with the rise in food prices across the United States. An increase in food prices can make it difficult for some households to eat healthily. Consequently, it is an issue worth examining to determine the influence on the affordability of critical nutrients and the possible remedies.

The inflation issue has a direct impact on healthy eating. This issue affects the food choices that most people make. For example, a family from a low-income socioeconomic background that used to eat healthily will be forced to downgrade their eating habits due to high grocery prices. The most probable solution for such households is to purchase less expensive, less healthy food (Hrisca, 2022). This trajectory negatively affects healthy eating among financially struggling families. Inflation is also responsible for the increase in prices of farm inputs (Hrisca, 2022). As such, some farmers may reduce their productivity. This path in production means that the market will have a shortage of healthy foods. Thus, inflation issue influences individuals’ healthy eating.

Despite the impact inflation has on healthy eating, it is possible to consider approaches that would alleviate the situation. For example, policies can be enacted to allow people to have expansive home gardens. Additionally, leverage in accessing cheaper nutritious foods can be advanced by local, state and federal governments. The above initiatives will help reduce inflation’s possible negative impacts on healthy eating for populations. What actions do you take to afford eating healthy with rising costs?

Reference

Hrisca, P. (2022). The impact of inflation on food. New Food Magazine. Retrieved from https://www.newfoodmagazine.com/article/167236/the-impact-of-inflation-on-food/

Protect yourself from ticks & Lyme Disease

Leave a comment August 5, 2023 abenko2016

Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

What is Lyme disease? According to the Centers for Disease Control, Lyme Disease is caused by the transmission of the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. The transmission of this disease most often occurs from the bite of the black-legged tick. The disease itself includes symptoms such as fever, headaches, fatigue, difficulty in thinking, and a rash. (CDC). However, it can be treated with the use of antibiotics. Some people that are infected with Lyme Disease often have a delayed infection even after the bite of a tick. The disease itself is normally detected later because people that have been infected symptoms seem more like mild flu symptoms and these delays in identifying Lyme Disease.

There are several ways to protect yourself from getting bitten by ticks. Some preventative measures include wearing clothing to cover your arms and legs, checking your body regularly for ticks, and use repellents containing DEET when going in wooded areas on outdoor activities, protect pets from ticks by giving them monthly doses of flea and tick medications, and check their bodies regularly when they come from outdoor excursions.

The CDC recommends taking the following steps to remove a tick:

· Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.

· Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth parts with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.

· After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

· Dispose of a live tick by submerging it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed bag/container, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it down the toilet.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed relatively safely with these measures in place for protection. It is summer enjoying the sunshine and getting in some physical activity outside is a great way to maintain optimal health.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022a, January 19). Lyme disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/index.html

Help America’s Children Battle Obesity!

Leave a comment August 5, 2023 abenko2016

Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

We all know that obesity is a trending issue in the United States of America. Between junk food, desserts, fast food, and the cost of healthy foods, many things counterproductive to fight obesity. It seems as if the target for obesity is becoming younger and younger. Increased obesity rates are becoming more evident in the children of the United States of America. Obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, sleep apnea, and joint problems can be directly correlated to being obese.

According to the Centers for Disease Control:

Childhood obesity affects approximately 19.7% of children and adolescents.
The prevalence of obesity among different races among children ages two to 19 years. They are as follows:
- Hispanic children: 26.2%
- African-American children: 24.8%
- Non-Hispanic white children: 16.6%
- Asian- American children: 9%

The good news is childhood obesity is a preventable condition. Providing families with community resources where they can obtain healthy foods for free or low cost can help in the fight against childhood obesity. Encouraging physical activity and minimizing screen time increases the likelihood to win the battle. Remember if you are modeling healthier lifestyle habits, children can easily adapt to better eating habits and increased physical activity.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, September 27). Obesity, race/ethnicity, and covid-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/obesity-and-covid-19.html

Why Many Men Avoid the Doctor

Leave a comment August 5, 2023 abenko2016

By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Some men avoid the doctor. It may be due to work, masculinity, expense or simply underestimating the issue causing symptoms. This issue limits the rate at which men would seek care for their underlying conditions. Thus, outlining the reasons this population segment does not access medical care on time would help solve the challenge.

The current societal paradigms define a man based on his masculinity. This exemplification is part of the reason men do not seek timely medical care. In other words, based on societal norms, they develop stereotypical perspectives that they should demonstrate strength and perseverance (Handcock, 2022). This inclination is responsible for most seeking to stay away from care facilities to avoid being weaklings. In some cases, men avoid healthcare services citing reasons such as being preoccupied with work duties. Additionally, most men are likely to ignore vital health warning signs (Handcock, 2022). In some cases, they could fear diagnosis outcomes, thus, choose to stay away from hospitals.

The issue among men regarding the lack of criticality in seeking timely medical care can be remedied through varied strategic approaches. For example, mitigating harmful masculinity perspectives, such as avoiding care facilities to appear strong, is relevant. Other than this intervention, educating men on the need to value their health as their occupation. This consideration will promote a desire to seek timely medical care. Therefore, the above approaches may cement criticality among men to visit care facilities immediately when needed.

Reference

Handcock, M. (2022). ‘It’ll get better on its own’: Men and their resistance to seeing a doctor. The Health Policy Partnership. Retrieved from https://www.healthpolicypartnership.com/itll-get-better-on-its-own-men-and-their-resistance-to-seeing-a-doctor/#:~:text=But%20why%20are%20many%20men,seek%20medical%20attention%20than%20women.