Can lifestyle coaching and therapy protect autistic teens from heart disease?

NCT ID NCT07673172

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 29, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests two approaches—lifestyle medicine consultations and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—to reduce cardiovascular risk in autistic individuals aged 9 to 26 who have a high body mass index. Participants are randomly assigned to receive lifestyle coaching, CBT sessions, or both over six months. Researchers will measure changes in diet, physical activity, stress, and heart health indicators like blood pressure and waist circumference.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Lifestyle medicine consultations and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward effective ways to lower heart disease risk in autistic young people by improving lifestyle habits and managing stress.
What could go wrong: This is a relatively small, early-stage behavioral study, so results may not apply broadly. Participants must attend multiple virtual sessions, which may be challenging for some families.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism cardiovascular disorder prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE AUTISM CARDIOVASCULAR (CV) RISK STRESS

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