ACRI Conducts Nutrition Focused Physical Examination Training to Advance Autism Research
ACRI hosted a Nutrition Focused Physical Examination Training on June 18, 2025, as part of the research project "Molecular and Clinical Profile of Children with Autism Compared to their Age-Matched Peers."
Training Objectives and Leadership
The training aimed to equip researchers and student research assistants to conduct NFPE with hands-on training to ensure fidelity to procedure and support skill retention among attendees. Dr. Maria Christina Kristin S. Reyes, MD, MSCN, FPMNCP, IFMCP served as the speaker for the session.
Key Outcomes
The peer practicum component allowed participants to apply the techniques learned during the session and receive feedback. The training successfully built the capacity of the clinical team to accurately and competently conduct NFPE and administer questionnaires to children aged 5 to 9, both with and without autism spectrum disorder, as part of the research protocol.
Participant Engagement
Participants shared their motivations for joining the training, with some mentioning that they have families or friends with ASD and wanted to explore more about the spectrum. The training drew notable attendance from members of the ASMPH community, including both students and faculty members.
The successful completion of this training positions the research team to move forward with the data collection phase of their autism research project with enhanced clinical assessment capabilities.
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Directory for Mental Health Services - Expanding access to resources for children with autism
Autism affects an estimated 1 in 127 people worldwide, yet the Philippines has no national prevalence data of its own. The Ateneo Autism Study Group (AASG), under ASMPH's Center for Research and Innovation, is working to change that: developing screening tools for children, youth, and adults with autism as the foundation for a future nationwide prevalence study funded by DOST. Access to care is part of the same problem. To help families navigate it, AASG has built a directory of therapy centers, professionals, and educational resources for children with autism across Metro Manila, Iloilo City, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro. Professionals and service providers are invited to join the effort by adding their services to the list.
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Strengthening Community Mental Health: mhGAP Training in Albay
From July 2 to 4, 2025, frontline health workers in Albay completed intensive mhGAP training under the Ka-ginhawa Project, a partnership initiative supported by the Australian Government, CBM Global Disability Inclusion, and the Balik Kalipay Center for Psychosocial Response. The three-day program equipped local providers with essential skills to assess and manage mental health conditions while strengthening referral networks across the province.