In a world that never ceases to spin, there is another world that autistic people make for themselves. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), affecting 1 in every 100 children, was recognised as a disability in India in 2000. 

As we commemorate World Autism Awareness Day, it is important to note that this disorder “constitutes a diverse group of conditions related to the development of the brain,” according to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) website.

World Autism Awareness Day is observed every year on Apr 2 to raise awareness, destigmatize, and support the people living with the condition.

The estimated prevalence of Autism is 1 in 68 children in India, with boys more commonly affected by Autism. The male-to-female ratio for Autism stands at 3:1, according to a 2021 study published in Indian journal of paediatrics, reports India Autism Centre.

What is Autism?

Autism encompasses a variety of conditions characterised by difficulties in social interaction and communication.

Autistic individuals may also display unconventional patterns of behaviour, such as experiencing challenges transitioning between activities, focusing intensely on specific details, and reacting differently to sensations.

Early intervention can help develop skills, reduce difficulties, and ensure long-term success of people suffering from autism -- a developmental disorder that affects how individuals behave, interact, and learn, said experts to the news agency.

“Early intervention is crucial to significantly influence the developmental trajectory and general well-being of people with ASD. Early detection and diagnosis can pave the way for families to obtain vital resources and support services, starting them on their journey to recognising and addressing their child's special needs,” Dr Vipul Gupta - chief of neurointervention and co-chief of stroke unit, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, told news agency.

While no single cause has been identified for ASD, research points to a combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors that may contribute to its onset.

Cause

Dr Aabha Bhalerao, consultant gynaecologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, told the news agency that advanced parental age, prenatal exposure to certain medications like valproic acid, exposure to environmental toxins such as heavy metals and pesticides, nutritional factors like inadequate folic acid intake, maternal health conditions like diabetes and obesity, premature birth, and birth complications, are all major factors for the development of autism.

In addition, maternal health conditions such as gestational diabetes or hypertension can impact the risk of autism in children. Complications during childbirth, such as prematurity or birth injury, oxygen deprivation, or foetal distress, can also contribute to the risk.

“It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that a child will be diagnosed with autism. Likewise, many children who develop autism may not have been exposed to these factors. Autism spectrum disorder is likely the result of a complex interplay of genetic predisposition and environmental influences,” Dr Aabha said.

Autism and communication

People with ASD may experience challenges in social interactions and may struggle with interpreting and utilising both verbal and nonverbal communication cues. The treatment majorly includes speech therapy, social skills training, and applied behaviour analysis (ABA).

“Through utilising the neuroplasticity of the brain in the beginning stages, early intervention helps develop skills, reduces difficulties, and ensures long-term success,” Dr Vipul said, noting that it can enable patients to “navigate everyday life and promote their independence, inclusion, and fulfilment.”

Homoeopathy treatment for autistic children?

“A disciplined diet plays an important role in curing autism,” a homoeopathic doctor added. “The hair, blood, and urine of autistic children have been reported to contain relatively high levels of lead, mercury, cadmium, and other heavy metals.” 

Homoeopathic doctors suggest that gluten, milk, and milk products should be avoided for autistic children. They also said that sweet products are also harmful.

Symptoms of autism in children

Between the ages of 18 and 24 months, some children may display concerning behaviours associated with autism. These include avoiding eye contact, difficulty or hesitation in speaking, or sudden regression in speech.

They may engage in repetitive actions like spinning objects, hand flapping, or rocking, and show little fear in dangerous situations.

They might also keep a prolonged gaze on a single item.

Moreover, they may react more to certain sounds, including the whistling of trains, vehicle horns, firecrackers, mixer-grinder voices, etc., by covering their ears or seeking comfort.

Many of these children also demonstrate advanced abilities in tasks like solving puzzles and exceptional memory. 

(With inputs from IANS)

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