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There has been a dramatic increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) worldwide. Recently anecdotal evidence of possible therapeutic effects of cannabis products has emerged. The aim of this study is to characterize the epidemiology of ASD patients receiving medical cannabis treatment and to describe its safety and efficacy. We analysed the data prospectively collected as part of the treatment program of 188 ASD patients treated with medical cannabis between 2015 and 2017. The treatment in majority of the patients was based on cannabis oil containing 30% CBD and 1.5% THC. Symptoms inventory, patient global assessment and side effects at 6 months were primary outcomes of interest and were assessed by structured questionnaires. After six months of treatment 82.4% of patients (155) were in active treatment and 60.0% (93) have been assessed; 28 patients (30.1%) reported a significant improvement, 50 (53.7%) moderate, 6 (6.4%) slight and 8 (8.6%) had no change in their condition. Twenty-three patients (25.2%) experienced at least one side effect; the most common was restlessness (6.6%). Cannabis in ASD patients appears to be well tolerated, safe and effective option to relieve symptoms associated with ASD.

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly exhibit comorbid symptoms such as aggression, hyperactivity and anxiety. Several studies are being conducted worldwide on cannabidiol use in ASD; however, these studies are still ongoing, and data on the effects of its use is very limited. In this study we aimed to report the experience of parents who administer, under supervision, oral cannabinoids to their children with ASD. After obtaining a license from the Israeli Ministry of Health, parents of children with ASD were instructed by a nurse practitioner how to administer oral drops of cannabidiol oil. Information on comorbid symptoms and safety was prospectively recorded biweekly during follow-up interviews. An independent group of specialists analyzed these data for changes in ASD symptoms and drug safety. 53 children at a median age of 11 (4-22) year received cannabidiol for a median duration of 66 days (30-588). Self-injury and rage attacks ( = 34) improved in 67.6% and worsened in 8.8%. Hyperactivity symptoms ( = 38) improved in 68.4%, did not change in 28.9% and worsened in 2.6%. Sleep problems ( = 21) improved in 71.4% and worsened in 4.7%. Anxiety ( = 17) improved in 47.1% and worsened in 23.5%. Adverse effects, mostly somnolence and change in appetite were mild. Parents' reports suggest that cannabidiol may improve ASD comorbidity symptoms; however, the long-term effects should be evaluated in large scale studies.

Background Exposure to armed conflict negatively impacts health. However, there is limited data on secondary stress from ambiguous loss contexts, such as kidnapping. In this study we aimed to quantify changes in modifiable health behaviors and well-being among women in hostage families and hostage crisis volunteers versus the general female population within the first two months of the 2023 Israel-Hamas war. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted on 318 Hebrew-speaking women aged 18–75 in Israel comparing: (1) a general population sample ( n  = 245); (2) hostage crisis volunteers ( n  = 40); and (3) hostage family members ( n  = 33). Participants provided demographic information, details on chronic illnesses, and responded to Likert-scale questions covering self-rated health, mental health, and lifestyle habits before the conflict and in current state. Results Hostage family members reported the most severe health impacts, followed by volunteers. Fair/poor physical health status increased significantly in all groups during the war, with hostages’ families reporting the highest rate (61.6%). Mental health deterioration was more pronounced among hostages’ families, with 84% expressing a need for mental health support. Hostages’ families also reported the highest rates of sleep problems, reduced adherence to a healthy lifestyle, and weight loss. Mental and physical health declined significantly across the exposed groups, as measured by multiple assessments, with hostage families experienced the most pronounced impairments across various domains of well-being. Conclusions This period of conflict severely harmed the well-being of all women in the study population. Women from all three groups - hostage families, volunteers, and those from the general population - experienced health deterioration due to varying levels of stress and exposure to conflict-related factors. Hostage families faced the greatest impact with nearly all members of this group showing significant health damage. Long-term support is needed to help restore post-conflict health for all affected women. Further research may be needed to determine the most effective interventions for addressing these impacts across the different groups. Key points This was the first study to quantify changes in modifiable health behaviors and well-being among women indirectly exposed to conflict through a hostage situation. Hostage family members experienced the most severe declines in mental health and other outcomes within 2 months of conflict onset compared to volunteers or the general population. Conflict can have extensive negative impacts on community health through diverse experiences, even if individuals are not directly facing violence. Tailored, long-term public health support interventions are needed to restore health in post-conflict periods, considering individuals’ varied burdens and exposure profiles.