Many opinions exist about autism spectrum disorder. This umbrella term refers to a variety of behavioral disorders that are characterized by impaired communication and social interaction. However, no one knows the real cause.

Is there a cause for autism? Although no one knows for certain, studies indicate that there are a variety of genetic, environmental and physiological factors. Scientists have now learned more about autism’s brain function, even though they still don’t know the exact cause. Study results have shown that the brains of autistic people may have lower levels of serotonin. It is a neurotransmitter essential for controlling mood and appetite.

If autism symptoms are caused or worsened in part by chemical brain reactions, drug therapy might be able to help.

One company, Cellceutix (www.cellceutix.comThis has been a significant step forward. Cellceutix, symbol CTIX in the stock exchange, became a publicly traded company in December 2007. George W. Evans, Krishna Menon, and Eli Lilly’s senior employees, founded the company. Cellceutix researchers induced autism symptoms in rat pups by injecting a compound called 5,7-dihydroxytyptamine into their forebrains four hours after their birth. Injecting the compound 5,7-dihydroxytyptamine into the rats’ forebrains caused anxiety and brain plasticity. This is the brain’s ability to learn new neural pathways and develop new ones. The rats also experienced decreased levels of serotonin in their cortex and hippocampus. Their brains were similar to autistic people, that is to say.

Cellceutix researchers administered KM-391 to the rats. Within 90 days, the rats had exhibited less abnormal behavior, higher cognitive abilities, and normal levels of serotonin. Cellceutix currently works to obtain FDA approval to continue human trials for KM-391.

While autism can be caused by many different factors, a compound such as KM-391 can improve the quality and life of those who have it. It can help them communicate and interact with others, as well as alleviate anxiety over change and repetitive behavior.

Autism is the most rapidly-growing developmental disorder among children. Autism affects 1 in 110 American children and 1 in 70 American boys. The promising research into drug therapy is one step towards understanding and treating this complex disorder.

The pace of life today is rapid. The rise of digital technology has allowed people to communicate with each other via the internet and simultaneously check their children’s soccer scores. With the advent of the Internet, consumers can expect the same conveniences from all services and businesses except their insurance companies. For many people struggling to pay their medical bills, this can seem like a long wait, even though 98 percent of claims for health insurance are processed in 30 days.

It is no longer enough to be insured, as nearly two-thirds of American households have less income than 2002. It is important to find out how fast and easy your insurance company processes and pays claims. This is critical for both financial recovery and physical recovery.

According to a recent survey, 66% of workers would struggle to pay for the financial burdens associated with serious injuries and illnesses. Only 49% of workers have over $1,000 to pay out-of-pocket costs. Employers are being forced to take cost-saving measures due to rising health care costs, which is putting even more financial pressure on employees.

* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.

* Increasing employees’ share of premium.

* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.

Some people might have to wait as long as a month to receive their insurance payments. Many insurance companies strive to provide fast service with better technology and better understanding of customers’ needs. This is just one example. AflacIn the insurance industry, it is rare to find policies that allow for claims approval, processing, and payment within one day.

In the past, fast payment policies were a luxury. It is a necessity in today’s world. It is more important than ever that you have money available immediately for serious injuries or illnesses. You should ensure that your insurance company can move at your pace.

Aflac’s One Day Pay Promise can be found at aflac.com/onedaypay.