April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time set aside to raise awareness about one of the most common genetic disorders in children. In 2020 the statistics showed that one in 59 children are now affected, up from one in 150, which was the prevalence rate in 2000. As the rate of autism keeps climbing, it’s now more important than ever to spread awareness and promote understanding and acceptance of autism.
That’s because many people with autism can improve their quality of life by getting an early diagnosis and professional support, only if more people are accepting of autism.
This article aims to spread a bit of that awareness and acceptance.
What is Autism?
There are many definitions of autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Essentially, it’s a developmental disorder and as mentioned earlier, one of the common genetic disorders in
children. It impacts the nervous system, thus affecting communication and behavior in children.
As a result, autism is typically associated with symptoms such as having difficulty developing social and communication skills. Some children or adults with autism may also develop obsessive interests. These symptoms may show up from the moment a child is born or may develop later on as the child ages.
Some children may be impacted severely, requiring continuous monitoring and daily support with their routines. Others may require considerably less support. Although autism does not lower life expectancy, people with autism often have a higher mortality risk from accidents mainly due to cognitive impairment.
Autism spectrum disorder is referred to as such because each person with autism is unique and the severity of symptoms varies widely. An interesting fact about autism is that symptoms can even be classified as strengths or impressive abilities.
For instance, one in 10 children or adults with autism exhibit symptoms of savant syndrome. This condition is characterized by a display of extraordinary abilities. These are usually related to memory. As an example, a person with autism may quickly learn how to play a musical instrument or perform rapid and complicated calculations.
Causes of Autism
Since April is autism acceptance month, it’s not a bad time to learn about what causes autism. What’s the reason behind the repetitive patterns of behavior and lack of social reciprocity commonly associated with autism diagnosis?
As one of the common genetic disorders in children , autism has been widely researched. However, in most cases, scientists have been unable to pinpoint the underlying cause or reason why a child is born with autism or develops it later in life.
Research strongly suggests that autism is partly because of genetic influences . But a host of other non-genetic influences may also be at play. Gene mutations increase the likelihood of a child developing autism. These genes are passed from a parent, though they don’t always cause autism.
Giving birth at an older age also increases the chances of a child being born with autism. However, one thing that has NOT been linked to autism is the vaccination of children.
Signs of Autism in Children
Here’s a list of symptoms that are commonly associated with being on the autism spectrum:
- Problems with verbal and non-verbal communication
- Poorly developed social skills
- Repetitive patterns of behavior
- Inflexible thinking and behavior
- Emotional meltdowns if things don’t go a certain way
It is important to note that the signs and symptoms of autism are not always so clear-cut. The importance of seeking a professional opinion or help can’t be overemphasized.
How is Autism Treated?
Parents or guardians that are concerned that their child may have autism are encouraged to see a primary care provider or medical professionals that specialize in genetic disorders in children.
This is especially important if you want your child to get treatment that is tailored to their individual challenges. Your child may undergo behavioral treatments such as speech and occupational therapy. These treatments are designed to improve cognitive skills and other related behaviors. Medication is also available and can be prescribed after the child has been properly evaluated and diagnosed.
What is The Autism Awareness Month Color?
Blue is the official autism awareness month color. During the month of April, and now that you know this interesting fact about Autism, you shouldn’t be surprised to see a lot of blue going around as people show their support for autism awareness and acceptance.
There’s a reason why the autism awareness month color is blue. Blue has long been associated with feelings of calmness, acceptance, and tranquillity which are all beneficial and much needed by people on the spectrum.
From Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month
One other interesting fact about autism is that April is no longer Autism Awareness Month. The Autism Society of America has formally shifted from “Autism Awareness Month” to “Autism Acceptance Month.” The move was made to empower people with autism and their families more.
The Autism Society of America acknowledges that while autism awareness is still important, acceptance is one of the biggest requirements for developing a strong support system for people on the spectrum.
What Can You Do to Promote Autism Acceptance Month?
- April is Autism Acceptance Month and April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. During this time, you can show your support by wearing blue, which is the autism awareness month color.
- You can learn more about autism. A deeper understanding of how the disorder works fosters empathy and acceptance.
- Donate whatever you can to help people on the spectrum live a better life.
- Spread autism awareness by sharing the truth that you know about autism, especially on social media platforms where there’s more reach
- Take action by advocating for the many policies that support individuals with autism and their families.
Interesting Facts About Autism
Not only are these interesting facts about autism, but some of them are facts that we all need to know, to make the world a better place for people with autism.
- Autism is a genetic disorder in children that’s now more common than cancer, AIDS, and diabetes combined.
- The word “autism” is derived from the Greek word autos. It means “alone”.
- Autism occurs in people of all races, nationalities, and sexes.
- Autism spectrum disorder was once referred to in a socially and politically incorrect manner. Today the correct term is people with autism disorder.
- Generally, autism symptoms appear before the age of 3.
- There is no current cure for autism.
- Parental behavior during pregnancy has not been linked to the development of autism in any way.
- Autism needs to be treated and diagnosed early to ensure a better outcome in children’s lives.
- Autism is not a degenerative disease. Symptoms can improve with proper and specialized treatment.
- People with autism also need social interaction but lack the ability to fit in with a group of their peers effortlessly.
- They may also suffer from comorbid medical conditions such as allergies, epilepsy, seizures, cognitive impairments, and other genetic, neurological, or metabolic disorders.
- Adults or children with autism are also unique individuals with typical human behaviors.
- Speculation is rife that Albert Einstein and Issac Newton were on the spectrum.
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REFERENCES
https://www.autism-society.org/news/autism-society-of-america-position-statement-on- the-state-of-the-science-in-causes-of-autism/
https://www.autism-society.org/releases/media-urged-to-recognize-shift-from-autism-a wareness-month-to-autism-acceptance-month-this-april/