What is ASD(autism spectrum disorder)
It is a biologically based neuro developmental disorder characterized by impairments in two major domains:
- deficits in social communication and social interaction and
- restricted repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities
ASD encompasses disorders previously known as autistic disorder [classic autism, sometimes called early infantile autism, childhood autism], childhood dis integrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, and Asperger disorder [also known as Asperger syndrome].
What are the key symptoms of autism?
- Social interaction and social communication – Children with autism have trouble relating to other people. This might include:
- Trouble reading another person’s facial expression
- Avoiding eye contact
- Not wanting to be touched
- Not wanting to play or interact with other people
Children with autism often take much longer than other children to learn to speak. Some never learn to speak. They also often don’t use other forms of communication, like hand gesture, facial expressions and different tones of voice.
- Limited interests and repetitive behaviors – Children with autism tend to show intense interest in certain things. They also often repeat the same behaviors. This might include:
- Being completely focused on things that spin or shine and ignore other things
- Being preoccupied with a specific topic or subject
- Having rituals they must follow exactly, and getting upset if a routine change
- Reciting scripts from a movie, TV show or conversation from the past
- Repeating certain physical motions, like flapping the hands, rocking or spinning
Every child with autism is unique, and children with autism do not all think or act exactly the same. They may be verbal or nonverbal. They may be very bright of average intelligence or have cognitive deficits.
Individuals with autism maybe very creative and have a passion and talent for music,theater,art,dance and singing.
Prevalence
The overall prevalence of ASD in Europe, Asia and the United States ranges from 2 to 25 per1000, or approximately 1 in 40 to 1 in 500. It occurs in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.
Male to female ratio
ASD is three to four times more common in males than females
Cause of ASD
The exact cause is unknown. There is not just one cause of ASD. There are many different factors that have been identified that may likely to cause ASD including environmental, biologic and genetic factors. But studies suggest genetic factor plays an important role. The common consensus is genetic factors along with some environmental and biologic factors may cause ASD.
Diagnosis of ASD
A multidisciplinary team diagnoses ASD.It is diagnosed by evaluation of a person’s behavior and development. The evaluation includes medical and neurological examinations, assessment of child’s cognitive abilities and language abilities, observation and history taking regarding child’s behavior and development from the caregiver. As it can be diagnosed reliably by two years of age hence it is a developmental disorder.Although, ASD can be diagnosed at any age but early diagnosis is crucial as the earlier the ASD is diagnosed, the sooner treatments and services can begin and have a profound impact on child’s future outcome of improvement.
Management of ASD
There is no cure for autism but with intensive intervention significant improvement is possible. Management of ASD is individualized according to age and special needs. It requires a multidisciplinary lifespan approach that makes use of the individual’s strengths to address his or her weakness.
Behavioral,developmental and educational interventions target the core symptoms of ASD with an objective of improving overall function. Intensive behavioral and educational interventions are the primary component of treatment programs for ASD.These interventions are carried out by special education personnel and trained therapists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Myth: Autism is caused by bad parenting or vaccines. Fact: Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition believed to have both genetic and environmental factors. Parenting style does not cause autism, nor do vaccines.
Myth: All autistic people have savant abilities (exceptional skills). Fact: While some autistic individuals may have savant abilities, such as in music, math, or art, these are rare and not representative of all autistic people.
Myth: Autism only affects children. Fact: Autism is a lifelong condition. While symptoms may change over time and early intervention is beneficial, autistic individuals remain autistic throughout their lives.
Myth: Autism is rare. Fact: Autism is relatively common. According to the CDC, about 1 in 36 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Myth: Autistic people lack empathy. Fact: Autistic individuals may express empathy differently, but they are capable of feeling and showing empathy and compassion.
Myth: Autism can be cured. Fact: Autism is not a disease that can be cured. However, early intervention and support can help improve quality of life and functioning.
Myth: All autistic people have intellectual disabilities. Fact: While some autistic individuals may have intellectual disabilities, many others have average or above-average intelligence.
Myth: Autism is a mental illness. Fact: Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, not a mental illness. It is characterized by differences in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests.
Myth: Autistic individuals cannot live independently or hold jobs. Fact: Many autistic individuals can live independently, hold jobs, and have successful careers with appropriate support and accommodations.