Autism
spectrum disorders (ASD) was first diagnosed in the U.S. and since then the
month of April is observed as autism awareness month. On the other hand, April the
2nd is the world autism awareness day based on a WHO Resolution
which was adopted by more than 60 countries in May 2014. The resolution is
entitled “Comprehensive and coordinated efforts for the management of ASD”.
The
need for such a resolution was based on the inadequate knowledge and misconceptions of
health care providers about ASD, unmet health care needs and vulnerability
of individuals with ASD for not having access to health care services, unjust deprivation of health, education
and opportunities for individuals with ASD to engage and participate in their
communities, significant emotional and economic burden
on individuals with ASD and their families including being subject to stigma
and discrimination, impact of ASD on social participation and
employment opportunities of individuals, and the need for inclusive and supportive
environment for people with ASD.
ASD
begins in childhood manifesting during the first 5 years of life. It is an
umbrella term covering conditions such as childhood autism, atypical autism and
Asperger syndrome which is a developmental disorder but not delayed cognitive
abilities. It is characterized by severely impaired social skills, repetitive
behavior, and often a narrow set of interests. The level of intellectual
functioning of individuals with ASD is extremely variable and the condition may
be associated with depression, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD). Available scientific evidence suggest that environmental and
genetic factors can be the cause of ASD but on the contrary vaccination is not
a risk factor at all.
Individuals
with ASD often suffer from numerous co-morbid medical conditions which may
include allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, viral infections,
feeding problems, sensory integration dysfunction and sleeping disorders. About
40% of children with autism do not speak or might speak later in childhood. ASD
is diagnosed more often in boys than girls.
Monitoring
of child development and early childhood care is an important part of caring
for individuals with ASD including providing relevant information, services,
referrals and support based on needs assessment. Mortality among individuals
with ASD is twice as high as the general population, in large part due to
drowning and other accidents.
According
to WHO 1 in 160 children has ASD and the prevalence appears to have been
increasing globally in the past 50 years but at the same time awareness of
people and diagnostic tools and reporting have also improved. Efforts are now
focused on enhancing commitment of governments and international advocacy on
autism, creating appropriate action plans and policies, and developing
effective strategies for assessment and treatment of ASD and other
developmental disorders.
Sources:
1.
WHO fact sheet, Jan. 2016
2.
National Autism Association fact sheet
