Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition where an individual has challenges with social skills, speech, and communication. They have repetitive behavior. It affects 0.2 percent of Indian babies. The numbers could be higher as many go unrecognized, especially in rural areas where access to health care may be inadequate. ASD has many subtypes, depending on which a person is treated. Individuals with ASD have varied strengths and disabilities or challenges. Their mental abilities vary from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some of them are geniuses in music, art, or mathematics. Most people with ASD will need support in daily life. Some could be completely independent.
The causes of autism are uncertain. These can be a combination of environmental, biological, and genetic factors. ASD is often associated with gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, and other attention issues.
Risk factors for autism are as follows:
4 times more common in boys, here is why! This list is lengthy but not exhaustive.
ASD can be seen as early as 6-12 months but most commonly present at age 3 years. It usually lasts for life. Early detection and proper therapies can reduce disabilities. Some children have associated anxiety, depression, and ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity disorder). Diagnosis is based on suspicion. It is difficult as there are no objective methods like medical tests or other tools. Diagnosis is done by health care personnel, usually, medical practitioners based on behaviour and development. Research is ongoing in identifying signs of autism in pregnancy. Certain MRI findings in the fetal brain like enlarged insula and amygdala may predict later autism. These are preliminary and need further substantiation.
Some steps can be taken to reduce the risk of autism but it’s unlikely that we can completely prevent it.
Having said that, here are some ways that may help:
Get latest updates on health and wellness along with Preventive Care, Family Care, Reproductive Care, Self Care
Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we are committed to providing accurate, reliable, and authentic information to support your health and well-being. However, the content on this website is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised advice regarding your specific medical condition or concerns.