The beginning of this month started with World Autism Day on April 2nd. Many of us hear lots of debate about Autism these days, between the media and online platforms. Some essential facts and knowledge are the first step in trying to understand Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is also commonly known as Autism. It affects brain development, resulting in the individual experiencing a range of communication problems, a tendency to repeat patterns of behaviour, and difficulty with social interactions.(1) ASD exists on a spectrum, so each individual affected by Autism will have different symptoms and needs, which could be more or less severe than others.
Autism Then and Now:
Autism is a very complex disorder that is still not fully understood. With decades of research, we have learned a lot about Autism, and our understanding of the disorder has evolved. What has been considered a psychiatric disorder, the result of vaccines, or even a side effect of parenting styles, is understood to be a neurological disorder now.
Researchers have discovered that Autism has a very significant genetic component. They also have found links that suggest naturally-occurring factors, like environment, pre- and postnatal brain development, as well as viral infections and immune responses, are involved in Autism.(2) Medical scientists are increasingly confident that ASD is an incredibly complicated phenomenon that warrants being handled in a similarly complex and nuanced way.
Autism Diagnosis
Autism is sometimes misunderstood to be a modern disorder. While it was first recognized in 1942,(3) Autism certainly existed before then, but went undiagnosed. It may seem that more people are affected by ASD now, but most medical professionals agree that this is due to our improved methods of diagnosis and treatment, not a change in how many people are normally affected.
In their 2018 Report on Autism Spectrum Disorder, Health Canada found that 1 in every 66 children have Autism. These diagnoses are much more prevalent in boys. Research found that 56% of diagnoses would be found before the age of 6, and 90% of those with ASD would be diagnosed before the age of 12.(4)
Signs and Symptoms
As a spectrum disorder, each individual with Autism will have their own unique set of signs and symptoms that grow with them. A few early signs in young children include:
- Difficulty developing language skills
- Limited responsiveness to sounds
- Difficult to console during tantrums
- Difficulty sleeping at night
- Failure to bond with parents
- Limited imaginative play
- Limited interest in playing with other children
People affected by Autism commonly have associated medical problems that may appear unrelated to their neurological symptoms. People with Autism may also have gastrointestinal issues, as well as weaker immune systems that may leave them prone to infection.
Help Available
The starting point for for anyone that may have ASD is a diagnosis. With the assistance of a medical professional, people will have access to an assortment of different therapies and support programs can be tailored to their needs. People and families affected by Autism can find help in occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, behavioural therapy, educational and school planning, as well as training for parents, family, and caregivers.
Autism presents unique challenges and opportunities. With our increasing understanding of this disorder, we are able to provide better support and help for those affected. Knowledge, understanding, and compassion are our best tools to help those with Autism Spectrum Disorder in our lives.
Helpful Resources:
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- Canadian Public Health: List of Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/Autism-spectrum-disorder-asd/signs-symptoms-Autism-spectrum-disorder-asd.html
- Autism Junction: A directory of services for those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder http://www.Autismjunction.ca/
- Autism Canada: “Is This Your Child” Handbook: Early development symptom and diagnosis tools https://Autismcanada.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/AC_IsThisYourChild_2015.pdf
Sources
- “About Autism – Autism Canada.” 31 Jan. 2018, https://Autismcanada.org/about-Autism/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2018.
- “Evolution of Autism – Autism Canada.” 8 Apr. 2015, https://Autismcanada.org/about-Autism/evolution-of-Autism/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2018.
- “Evolution of Autism – Autism Canada.” 8 Apr. 2015, https://Autismcanada.org/about-Autism/evolution-of-Autism/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2018.
- “Autism Spectrum Disorder among Children and Youth in Canada 2018.” https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/Autism-spectrum-disorder-children-youth-canada-2018.html. Accessed 4 Apr. 2018.