by Gina Dement, Public Information Officer
Five County Mental Health Authority & the Autism Support Group
The Autism Society of American has designated April as Autism Awareness Month.
During this month, ASA is highlighting the growing need for concern and awareness about autism. Autism is a condition that effects 1 out of 150 American children, and almost 1 in 94 boys. There are 1.5 million Americans living with the effects of autism spectrum disorder.
Autism is a complex developmental disability that affects an individual’s social interaction and communication. It is known as a spectrum disorder, because it affects each individual in different ways and to varying degrees. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2001), autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 2 to 6 of every 1,000 individuals. Overall, the incidence of autism is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls and typically appears during the first 3 years of life. Children and adults with autism tend to have difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communications, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.
What causes autism?
There is no single known cause for autism. However, it is generally agreed that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans have shown differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism when compared to those without the condition. Researchers are investigating a number of theories, including a link between heredity, genetics, and birth-related medical problems. Psychological factors are not believed to be the cause of autism.
Researchers are unsure about what causes autism. Several studies suggest that autism might be caused by a combination of biological or environmental factors, or both, including viral exposure before birth, a problem with the immune system, or genetics. Many recently published scientific investigations have examined the possible connection between autism and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. At this time, though, the available data do not appear to support a causal link.
Studies of families and twins suggest a genetic basis for the disorder. It is important for scientists to find the genes responsible for autism, if any, because this knowledge would give physicians new tools to diagnose the disorder and help scientists develop gene-based therapies.
Some studies have found that the brains of people with autism may function differently from those that are considered “normal.” Research suggests that an abnormal slowing down of brain development before birth may cause autism. Studies also are looking at how autism-related problems in brain development may affect behavior later in childhood. For example, some researchers are investigating the ways in which infants with autism process information and how the disorder may lead to poor development of social skills, knowledge, and awareness.
Chemicals in the brain also may play a role in autism. As a normal brain develops, the level of serotonin, a chemical found in the brain, declines. In some children with autism, however, serotonin levels do not decline. Researchers are investigating whether this happens only to children with autism or whether other factors are involved.
How is autism treated?
Experts agree that early intervention is important in addressing the symptoms associated with autism. Most professionals also agree that individuals with autism respond well to highly structured, specialized education programs that are designed to meet the individual’s particular needs. In any treatment plan, it is important for family members and treatment providers to address areas of social skill development, communication, behavior, and sensory integration.
What help is available for families?
Since brain development can be influenced during early childhood, the treatment of autism has a greater chance of success when initiated as early as possible. In addition, when children with autism are treated early, the cost of long-term care may be reduced. Services and treatments that may benefit children and adolescents with autism and their families include:·
When services are started soon after a child is diagnosed with autism, the child’s language, social, and academic skills and abilities may be greatly improved. On the other hand, some children and adolescents do not respond well to treatment or may experience negative side effects from autism medications. Recent data suggest that some of the newer antipsychotic drugs may have fewer side effects than conventional drugs, but more studies are needed before experts can determine any possible safety advantages over traditional treatments.
Autism is treatable. Children do not “outgrow” autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes.
Five County Mental Health Area Authority has helped improve the health and lives of its citizens for over 35 years. As we work to increase awareness of mental health issues our goal is to help more people to know that caring for their minds as well as their bodies helps keep them productive, healthy and happy in all aspects of life: at work, at home and at school. We want to ask your help in raising awareness about Autism during the month of April.
Here are some signs to look for in the children in your life:
Our Helpline offers impartial, confidential information about where to go to receive assistance for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). For more information call our toll free Helpline number at 1.877.619.3761.
If you are interested in joining an Autism support group in the local area, please contact Beverly White at 252.431.4301. The local chapter email address is ASNC-Vance@hotmail.com
You can also visit www.autismsociety-NC.org