In the News October 22, 2007

News of interest for late-in-life moms:

California Bans Plastic Toy Chemical
California is the first U.S. state to ban toys and baby products containing more than a trace amount of phthalate, a chemical used to soften plastics. Phthalate, which has been linked to health problems, is used in baby bottles, teething rings, plastic bath ducks and other toys.

Can New Diet Help Kids with Autism?
Some parents believe a gluten- and wheat-free diet helps their autistic children.

Web Site Shows Autism Videos
A new web site offers dozens of video clips contrasting autistic children with unaffected children, The site, which is sponsored by the nonprofit advocacy groups Autism Speaks and First Signs, hopes to promote early diagnosis and treatment of autism.

Cold Medicine Safety in Spotlight
After infant and toddler cold medicines were pulled off store shelves because of safety concerns, advisors for the FDA are questioning their safety for older children up to age 5.

U.S. Touts Studying Postpartum Depression
The House of Representatives urged health agencies to expand research into postpartum depression, which can affect up to one-fifth of new mothers. The bill now goes to the Senate.