World Autism Awareness Day is observed every year on April 2 to raise awareness, destigmatise, and support the people living with the condition. Autism, also referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), constitutes a diverse group of conditions related to development of the brain. Autism is also a developmental disorder that affects how individuals behave, interact, and learn. According to a report by ETHealthWorld, about 18 million people in India are diagnosed with autism. The abilities and needs of autistic people vary and can evolve over time. While some people with autism can live independently, others have severe disabilities and require life-long care and support. Available scientific evidence suggests that there are probably many factors that make a child more likely to have autism, including environmental and genetic factors.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in brain development in children. Advanced parental age, prenatal exposure to certain medications, exposure to environmental toxins such as heavy metals and pesticides, nutritional factors like inadequate folic acid intake, maternal health conditions like diabetes and obesity, premature birth, and birth complications, are all major factors for the development of autism. In addition, maternal health conditions such as gestational diabetes or hypertension can impact the risk of autism in children. Complications during childbirth, such as prematurity or birth injury, oxygen deprivation, or foetal distress, can also contribute to the risk. Many parents and caregivers may not be aware of the early signs of autism, leading to delays in seeking a professional evaluation.
Early intervention can help develop skills, reduce difficulties, and ensure long-term success of people suffering from autism. Early intervention is crucial to significantly influence the developmental trajectory and general well-being of people with ASD. Early detection and diagnosis can pave the way for families to obtain vital resources and support services, starting them on their journey to recognising and addressing their child’s special needs. It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that a child will be diagnosed with autism. Likewise, many children who develop autism may not have been exposed to these factors.
People with autism may experience challenges in social interactions and may struggle with interpreting and utilising both verbal and nonverbal communication cues. The treatment majorly includes speech therapy, social skills training, and applied behaviour analysis. The healthcare needs of people with autism are complex and require a range of integrated services that include health promotion, care and rehabilitation. Collaboration between the health sector and other sectors, particularly education, employment and social care, is important. Interventions for people with autism and other developmental disabilities need to be designed and delivered with the participation of people living with these conditions. Care needs to be accompanied by actions at community and societal levels for greater accessibility, inclusivity and support.
