WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF AUTISM? HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

The Autism Society of America states that,

Autism can be diagnosed in infants as young as 1 year-old by observation using proper questionnaires and screening tools. There is no medical or blood test for autism. A developmental pediatrician, neurologist or psychiatrist familiar with developmental disorders can make a diagnosis.

Studies have shown that early diagnosis and early intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes and better levels of functioning for children with autism as they become adults.

Some early signs of autism include:

* Total lack of or delay in developing spoken language
* Stereotyped or repetitive use of language
* Little or no eye contact
* Lack of interest in peer relationships
* Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
* Repetitive motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, finger-flicking, twirling objects, complex whole body movements)
* Persistent preoccupation with parts of objects
* Inflexible adherence to specific, nonfunctional routines or rituals

Source: Autism Society of America (ASA)

HOW COMMON IS AUTISM?

As many as one out of every 166 babies born today will be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, and the incidence of autism is rising. This frightening statistic led the U.S. Congress in 2002 to declare autism as a "national health crisis". Autism is more common than childhood cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and Multiple Sclerosis. It is estimated that as many as 1.5 million children and adults have autism, and tens of millions of parents, caregivers, educators and health care professionals are impacted by ASD.
Source: Autism Society of America (ASA)

WHAT IS AUTISM?

According to the Autism Society of America (ASA),

"Autism is a neurobiological condition that affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. It is a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) that affects boys four times more often than girls, and it is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees of severity. Other PDDs include Asperger's Disorder, Rett's Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and PDD-NOS (Not Otherwise Specified). Although each individual with autism improves in functioning over time, unfortunately, children do not "grow" out of autism. It is a lifelong disability."