Don’t Miss Out on the Latest Updates.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter Today!
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates, one in 160 children suffer from Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) worlwide. The organisation, however, notes that the prevalence of ASD in many low- and middle-income countries remain unknown. World Autism Awareness Day is observed on April 2 every year to recognize and celebrate the rights of persons with autism. On November 1, 2007, the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly decided to designate a day for World Autism Day. The Assembly designated April 2 as the annual day for the World Autism Awareness Day from 2008 to "highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society". This year, the theme of World Autism Awareness Day is 'Inclusion in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities in a Post-Pandemic World'.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication. There are three types of autism spectrum disorder: autistic disorder, Asperger's syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). Despite growing awareness about this condition, one-fourth of children under age 8 with autism remain undiagnosed, according to a study. Some reasons for this disparity include communication or cultural barriers between parents and physicians, anxiety about the complicated diagnostic process and fear of stigma. Researchers suggest that screening all toddlers, pre-school and school-age children for autism could help reduce the disparities in diagnosis. Parents can also paly a big role in filling up this gap. According to experts, signs of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. However, some associated development delays can appear even earlier. These can be diagnosed as early as 18 months.
Early assessment and intervention can help reduce progressive symptom development. Early intervention can also lead to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism say research. Besides language delays and behavioural differences, the way a child interacts with peers can help identify autism. Here are some early signs that may help parents identify children with autism.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, but medication combined with behavioural therapies can help with related symptoms like depression, seizures, insomnia, and trouble focusing.