What Is Autism?
The National Autism Association defines autism as a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3. Autism impacts normal development in three areas:
- Social interaction
- Communication skills
- Cognitive function
Children with autism are also more likely to suffer from ailments:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Epilepsy
- Digestive disorders
- Persistent viral infections
- Feeding disorders
- Sensory integration dysfunction
- Sleeping disorders
Who Is Likely To Have Autism?
There seems to be no pattern. Autism is present in all races, regions and socio-economic groups. Boys are four times more likely to have the diagnosis. Presently, one in 150 people have autism. Source: National Autism Association.
Symptoms To Watch For
The American Academy of Pediatrics is releasing two reports on autism in November. They will be available on the group’s website. Some warning signs of autism listed are:
- A 4-month-old not smiling at the sound of Mom or Dad’s voice
- Loss of language or social skills at any age
- No babbling by 9 months
- 1-year-olds who don’t point to toys
[Lindsey Tanner, The Associated Press, washingtonpost.com, October 30, 2007]
New Website
In mid-October, a website went live offering video clips of autistic kids and unaffected children showing concerned parents the difference. New parents don’t have a gauge of what children should be doing developmentally. Autism Speaks will give them that knowledge.
Screen By Age Two
It is now advised that doctors screen for autism at ages 18 and 24 months. However, some insurance companies do not want to pay for these screenings. [Lindsey Tanner, The Associated Press, washingtonpost.com, October 30, 2007]
Causes?
Presently, no one is certain what causes autism. There are some in the medical profession that believe that the mercury preservative in vaccinations, Thimerosal, is responsible for autism. There are also some in the medical profession that believe a mother receiving a flu shot with Thimerosal could affect the baby she is carrying. The CDC has officially disagreed with the mercury theory and is doing its own study.
Non-Traditional Treatments
Some celebrities have appeared on television claiming success with foods and vitamins. The Pediatric Academy states that none of these claims have been proven. There are parents that claim Omega Oils and high protein foods do seem to have a positive effect on their autistic children. Source: National Autism Association.
Mild and Severe
Autism may be easily missed if a child has a very mild form. In such cases, children may not be diagnosed until age 16 if at all. Since the mild cases are the easiest to improve, it is even more important to be vigilant for the signs of autism.
Related Articles: Autism On The Rise, Are Children Sicker Today?
Read previous articles on Educational Issues.
Copyright article 2007 Barbara Pytel. All Rights Reserved.
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