Autism Awareness

On the 18th of December 2007, the UN adopted a resolution and declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day.
ASD(Autism Spectrum Disorder) is one of the fastest brain developing disease. Studies show that about 1% of the world’s population is affected by this disorder which is estimated 67 million people.

According to the CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention), ASD is a developmental disability that is about 4 times more common among boys than girls. It can be detected right from 18 months as a little child. Adding to the risk is that there is no definitive measurement or test or diagnosis for ASD but through observation of a child’s response and attitude. This observation is made over a period of time even as the child becomes an adult. Reports show that the spectrum is without a cure but can be managed when detected early.

Perhaps you think there are problems with the way your child plays, interacts, speaks or learns, you should contact a pediatrician, psychologist or neurologist for evaluation.

So I watched a big baby boy roam around barefooted and though not closely attached to anyone, he withdrew even as he walked, starring as if he was looking from a depth inside of himself with a repetitive flapping of his arms and from books and movies, it was pretty obvious what it was. Autism isn’t a distant disease, it’s right among us and this day is for us to accept these ones and encourage and love them, supporting them as they get the best life!

Author: Victoria Nwachukwu