Care of babies with autism spectrum disorder in an extension project

Abstract

Objective: To report the care of babies with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) within an extension project that works with babies with disabilities during 2019. Methods: The nutrition and dentistry developed nutritional and dental assessment of babies, with the participation of academics, previously trained under the supervision of the professors. The methodology includes an interdisciplinary anamnesis, an anthropometric evaluation and a clinical intra and extra-oral examination. Results: Five babies with ASD were classified as eutrophic at the time of assessment, and there was greater food selectivity, food intolerances and allergies. In the dental evaluations, the babies presented malocclusion, and the teeth hygiene was classified as poor. All presented mixed breathing, and they were referred for evaluation with an otolaryngologist. There was an improvement in food choices, a better acceptance of healthier foods, as well as an improvement in oral hygiene. Conclusions: The project resulted in a differential in the training of academics, favoring the knowledge of reality through contact with the community, and encouraging scientific production. It also contributed to the promotion of the integral health of babies with disabilities.