Autism

Autism is a complex development disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Research shows that early intervention leads to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism. There is also a condition called Asperger Syndrome which is a form of autism used to describe people at the higher functioning end of the Autism Spectrum.

Characteristics of Autism

What causes Autism

Autism is a brain disorder which affect the way brain uses information. The exact cause or causes are unknown. Research shows that genetic factors are important. Autism may indeed result from a combination of several “causes”. Autism is brain based development disorder. No factors in the psychological environment of the child cause autism.

Autism Prevalence

Diagnosis of Autism

Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be difficult because there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorder. Doctors look at the child’s developmental history and behaviour to make a diagnosis. Signs of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier, and often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) recommends developmental and behavioural screening for all children during regular well-child visits at these ages: 9 months, 18 months and 30 months. In addition, AAP recommends that all children be screened specifically for ASD during regular well-child visits at these ages: 18 months and 24 months.

Prognosis of Autism

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it can appear in a range of forms and severity levels. The prognosis for a child with autism depends on the severity of their initial symptoms but can be influenced by early intervention and treatment.