April is Autism Awareness Month and April 2 was the annual World Autism Awareness Day. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges in communicaton whether verbal or non-verbal, social interaction and propensity for repetitive behavior. There are many signs and facts about autism that everyone should be aware.
1. Boys are more likely to have autism than girls.
According to the National Autism Association statistics, autism affects 1 in 68 children, 1 in 42 boys. This means that boys are five times more likely to have autism compared to girls.
2. There is no cure.
The National Autistic Society has stated there is no possibility of a cure for autism. But that doesn't mean there aren't ways to help a person with the disorder. Intervention and treatments can be used to help individuals function and cope in society.
3. There is no known cause for autism.
Autism has proven to be a very complex disorder affecting people across multiple backgrounds and environments. Some have theorized that genetics and environment play a role but thus far there has been no conclusive proof of the causes.
4. Autism is not caused by vaccinations.
Many anti-vaccination people have tried to blame these immunizations on the cause of autism. However, study after study continues to prove otherwise finding no links between vaccinations and the disease.
5. It can be difficult to diagnose.
According to the CDC, there is no standard medical procedure such as blood tests to determine if someone has autism. To diagnose, health professionals must look at a child's behavioral patter to determine a diagnosis.
6. Autism can progress with early intervention being the key.
If left untreated, autism can actually progress and worsen. Children with the disorder can improve dramatically if the disorder is diagnosed early and treatment is begun.
7. People with autism communicate differently.
While people with autism often struggle with verbal and even some non-verbal communication, they often use a language all their own with body language, agitation, withdrawal or other signs.
8. Some historical figures could have had autism.
Some of histories greatest figures exhibited signs of autism albeit in a very high functioning form. Some of these figures include Thomas Jefferson, Mozart, Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, and many more.
Autism has become a growing concern in recent years, making it more important than ever for all of us to educate ourselves about the disorder so we can better understand it and help friends and family that may be dealing with the disorder on a daily basis.
