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Everyone is talking about AUTISM.
What are the Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)?
Autism
Asperger's Syndrome
Pervasive Developmental Disorders - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
High Functioning Autism (HFA)
What is Autism?
Autism is one of five pervasive developmental disorders with varying degrees of impairments, ranging from mild to severe. It is a brain disorder that manifests itself in early childhood. It is almost always diagnosed before the child's third birthday. Autism affects 4-5 times more boys than girls. It is unknown what the origins of the disorder are. It is also unknown why it affects more boys than girls. Currently, there is no cure for autism. However, early intervention can help the child tremendeously. The earlier therapies begin, the better.
What are the main signs and symptoms of Autism?
Impairment in communication
Impairment in social interaction
Repetitive behavior
Stereotypical behavior
Inability to relate to others
Sensory integration problems
What causes Autism?
The causes of autism are still unknown. Genetic factors are widely believed to play a big role in autism cases. Debates are still raging about the vaccine issue and whether thimerosal (mercury) has anything to do with the onset of autistic signs. Everyone agrees though that there are abnormalities in the brain structure of children with autism. No one though is 100% sure about what really triggers this disorder.
Check the important resources listed (in the right-hand side column) for more information. If you feel your child has one or more of the signs of autism, do not hesitate to call your child's pediatrician for advice. It is imperative that you start early because yoru child will benefit tremendeously from early intervention.
Stay tuned for a more comprehensive look at this fast growing disorder...
UPDATE
This is a copy from the official White House website regarding Autism (www.whitehouse.gov).
Autism
President Obama and Vice President Biden are committed to supporting Americans with Autism Spectrum Disorders (“ASD”), their families, and their communities. There are a few key elements to their support, which are as follows:
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First, President Obama and Vice President Biden support increased funding for autism research, treatment, screenings, public awareness, and support services. There must be research of the treatments for, and the causes of, ASD.
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Second, President Obama and Vice President Biden support improving life-long services for people with ASD for treatments, interventions and services for both children and adults with ASD.
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Third, President Obama and Vice President Biden support funding the Combating Autism Act and working with Congress, parents and ASD experts to determine how to further improve federal and state programs for ASD.
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Fourth, President Obama and Vice President Biden support universal screening of all infants and re-screening for all two-year-olds, the age at which some conditions, including ASD, begin to appear. These screenings will be safe and secure, and available for every American that wants them. Screening is essential so that disabilities can be identified early enough for those children and families to get the supports and services they need.
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