Category: Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Prevalence, Risk Factors, Treatment And Prevention

I. Introduction

Autism is a condition that is present from birth or very early in development that affects essential human behaviours such as social interaction, the ability to communicate ideas and feelings, imagination, and the establishment of relationships with others. It usually has life-long effects on just how children acquire to be social beings, look after themselves, and to join in the community.

Autism has grown into the most common neurological and developmental disorder detected in children nowadays. There is no identified cure for autism, and the variations of the symptoms of autism in each situation make it difficult to target a specific set of current treatments. However, some behaviour management therapies, specifically physical therapy, may help to significantly control the unwanted symptoms in young children with autism spectrum disorder.

II. Description

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that disturbs child growth in a number of significant areas, which include communication, social interaction and repetitive patterns of behaviour. Autism is similarly commonly associated with sensory sensitivities and sensory processing problems.

While Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex lifelong developmental disability, with appropriate intervention children and adults with Autism can make significant progress and live fulfilling lives. Consequently, it is imperative that individuals with Autism have access to specialist services that understand their needs and are experienced in developing their skills and strengths.

III. Prevalence

According to the 2017 Autism in Australia report, autism is most prevalent among children aged five to 14, with 83 per cent of Australians with an autism diagnosis aged under 25. However, while children are more likely to have a diagnosis of autism than adults are, this does not mean children ‘grow out’ of autism.

IV. Risk Factors

The total of children diagnosed by autism spectrum disorder is increasing. It remains not clear whether this is due to better finding and reporting or a real growth in the number of cases, or together. Autism spectrum disorder disturbs children of all races and nationalities, but definite factors rise a child’s risk. These may consist of:

• Child’s sex. Males are approximately four times more possible to develop autism spectrum disorder than females are.
• Family backround. Families who have one child with autism spectrum disorder have a bigger risk of having another child with the disorder. It is also not unusual for parents or relatives of a child with autism spectrum disorder to have insignificant problems with social or communication skills themselves or to participate in certain behaviours characteristic of the disorder.
• Very preterm babies. Babies born earlier 26 weeks of pregnancy may have a more risk of autism spectrum disorder.
• Parents’ ages. There may possibly a connection among children born to older parents and autism spectrum disorder, but more study is needed to establish this relation.

V. Causes

There is no identified single cause of autism. Many causes of autism have been examined and the understanding is still incomplete.

Investigation shows that genetic factors prevail but it is unclear which genes may be responsible. It is usually agreed, however, that autism is likely to have numerous causes, as well as some pre-natal factors that result in the common signs of autism.

Autism also have a tendency to occur more often than expected among people who have certain medical conditions including fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome and untreated phenylketonuria (PKU). It is more common in males than females.

VI. Treatment

In numerous instances, autism spectrum disorder is a lifetime disorder. Even though there is no cure, children who are detected and treated early can get better. There is no single treatment, but rather altered approaches suited to each child to improve behaviour and communication. These include intensive skill building and education sessions. These provide structure, direction, and organization for the child and family.

Over the past two decades, research on the effect of diet and nutrition on autism has been increasing, with a focus on the role of food additives, refined sugar, food allergies, and fatty acid metabolism.

However, there has been a lack of rigorous research studies in this field, and to date there is no sound conclusive research evidence to support the efficacy of any nutritional interventions in improving symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.

In addition, for some interventions there are concerns side effects and a lack of rigorous evidence concerning safety; for example, for those on a gluten and casein-free diet, there may be a risk of decreased bone cortical thickness.

VII. Prevention

There is no way to prevent autism spectrum disorder, but there are treatment possibilities. Early diagnosis and intervention is most helpful and can develop behaviour, skills and language development. Nevertheless, intervention is helpful at any age. Though children commonly do not grow up autism symptoms, they may learn to function well.

In unusual cases, doctors also say, a baby can be born with birth flaws if the mother was exposed to certain chemicals while she was pregnant. However, doctors cannot find out, throughout pregnancy, if your baby will have autism. Although you cannot avoid having a child with an autistic disorder, you can increase your chances of having a healthy baby by doing these existence changes: Live healthy. Have consistent check-ups, eat balanced meals, and keep fit. Make sure you have good prenatal care, and take all suggested vitamins and supplements.

VIII. Conclusion

Autism remains a major language disorder in Australia and around the world. This disorder affects children during their early stages of development. As a result, autistic children develop impaired communication ability. Assistance by parents and other close people is necessary to help affected children to cope with the situation since there is permanent cure known.

Although there is no cure, there have been significant strides in identifying, developing and implementing new treatments every day. Children with ASD are often able to lead full, happy, and productive lives, interacting with society on their own terms. One can only hope that the strides of today will be not only matched but also outpaced in the future, as ASD becomes not a mysterious disorder of unknown origin, but a minor affliction overcome by millions, unidentifiable and without stigma in the mainstream world.

VIIII. Reference List

References

1. https://healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Autism. (2019, January 07).
2. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/disability/autism-in-australia/contents/autism. (2017, August 30).
3. https://www.autism.org.au/what-is-autism/. (© 2019 Autism Association of Western Australia).
4. Jones, S. (2019). https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-11/can-you-grow-out-of-autism/11495734.
5. Maisonneuve H,, & Floret D. Presse Med. (2016, September)https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/autism-spectrum-disorders
6. Sandra, J. (2019, September 11). Retrieved from https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-11/can-you-grow-out-of-autism/11495734.

Understanding Autism: Challenges, Communication, and Treatment

Autism’s Communication Challenges

What’s it like to grow up in a world where you feel so different from everyone around you? Where do you feel as if you are slower, weirder, and less privileged than everyone else? People all around the world suffer from things that make them feel this way. According to Autism Speaks, 1 in every 59 children are suffering from Autism (Wright, 2005). The Autism Society (2015) has also found the prevalence of Autism increasing in the United States by 119.4 percent since the year 2000. The Autism Speaks organization defines Autism as a “broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication” (Wright, 2005).

Autism affects one’s speech, language, and communication in a variety of ways. The National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders states that children with Autism typically are very self-absorbed and seem to exist in their own private world. They often have limited ability to successfully communicate and interact with others (NIDCD, 2018). Children may struggle with not only developing their own language skills but also understanding what others are saying to them. Some even struggle with communicating nonverbally with things such as hand motions, eye contact, and facial expressions (NIDCD, 2018).

Most people with Autism have different ways of communication-based on their intellectual and social development. Some are unable to communicate using speech or language; however, some people have limited speaking skills. The Interactive Autism Network (2018) summarizes that individuals with Autism have difficulty with many aspects involving the production and understanding of speech. For example, because of their deficits in social situations, communicating and understanding communication do not feel relevant. Those suffering from Autism have a hard time not only understanding sounds but also attaching sounds to meanings.

Diagnosis and Early Intervention

Although speech can be difficult, individuals with Autism are typically very good at paying attention and appreciating visual materials (IAN, 2018). When thinking about Autism, we never really think about the cause. That’s because there is no single cause for Autism. The Autism Society says that Autism is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in the brain structure or function (Autism Society, 2015). Brain scans of people with Autism show differences in the brain’s shape compared to a normal brain. There are also a number of theories being investigated about the links between this disease and heredity, genetics, and medical problems (Autism Society, 2015).

Many families show patterns of Autism related disabilities. While no gene has been identified as causing Autism, the Autism Society says there are irregular genetic segments of genetic code that children with Autism may have inherited (2015). Certain environmental exposures in the womb have also been found to develop Autism in a child, says the National Center for Health Research (2018). Researchers are still known to be investigating problems during pregnancy or delivery as well as environmental factors such as viral infections and exposure to certain chemicals that could be causing Autism (Autism Society, 2015).

Autism is diagnosed in a variety of ways. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2015), diagnosing Autism is very difficult because you cannot medically test for it. Doctors typically look at the child’s development and behavior to diagnose Autism. Autism can be detected at 18 months or younger (CDC, 2015). Developmental screening can be done to test if a child is learning their basic skills for their age group and if their development is delayed.

Doctors typically ask parents questions as well as engage with the child to see how they learn, speak, behave, and move (CDC, 2015). The Autism Society (2015) states that some individuals with Autism may appear at first glance to have sensory processing issues and problems with hearing or vision; however, it is important to diagnose Autism early on to provide the appropriate educational and treatment program. Some early signs of Autism listed by the National Center for Health Research (2018) are no babbling or pointing by the age of one, loss of language or social skills, poor eye contact, etc. Although there is no signal way to diagnose Autism, we have many ways and resources to distinguish Autism.

Treatment and Support Options

Although there is no known cause of Autism, there are many ways Autism can be treated. The Autism Science Foundation (2015) found that the earlier a child receives intervention services, the better the child will progress throughout their life. All children undergoing early intervention benefit, and some may even gain enough skills to soon be able to attend mainstream school. The Autism Science Foundation (2015) sees that the most effective treatments available today are occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and pharmacological therapy. These treatments are meant to maximize one’s functional independence and quality of life. Speech therapy works with one’s deficits in social communication and is a very important treatment option.

With a licensed speech-language pathologist, a person’s communication skills can be improved in order for them to discuss their wants or needs; however, some individuals with Autism are nonverbal and communicate via hand gestures, sign language, and picture communication programs (ASF, 2015). Occupational therapy is generally used for sensory issues that correlate with Autism. It is used to teach things such as simple life skills such as dressing, cooking, and writing. Physical therapy is used for improving motor skills and teaching someone to be aware of their body space. Physical therapists work to improve an individual’s way of participating in everyday activities (ASF, 2015). In addition to these therapies, there are dozens of others that are used to improve the side effects of Autism.

In the end, Autism is a disorder that more than one percent of the American population suffers from (Autism Society, 2015). However, there are many ways that we, as individuals, can help. There are yearly fundraisers for Autism, such as walks, 5ks, and other ways to donate to research. Having a cousin with Autism is something that has inspired me as an individual to get more involved with this disease and do everything I can to inform people.

References:

1. Autism Science Foundation. (2015). Retrieved October 6, 2018, from https://autismsciencefoundation.org/what-is-autism/treatment-options/
2. Autism Society. (2015). Retrieved October 6, 2018, from https://www.autism-society.org/what-is/diagnosis/medical-diagosis/
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015). Retrieved October 6, 2018, from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/screening.html
4. Interactive Autism Network. (2018). Retrieved October 6, 2018, from https://iancommunity.org/cs/articles/speech_and_language_problems
5. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. (2018). Retrieved October 6, 2018, from https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/autism-spectrum-disorder-communication-problems-children#3
6. Wright, S. (2018). Autism Speaks. Retrieved October 6, 2018, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism

Understanding Autism: Causes, Detection & Progress

Autism: Early Detection and Progress

Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is a genetic, developmental disorder that causes issues with social interaction and verbal communication. It can also influence the motor skills and early development of a child. Typically, this disease is noticeable early on in a human’s life. This disease can vary from one person to the next. It has not yet been discovered why autism occurs in the first place. It is known that it is a genetic disease, but unknown which genes may carry the effect of the disease. Back in 1998, a doctor by the name of Andrew Wakefield had a paper published by a man named Lancent about a study finding a connection between autism and vaccines.

This discovery was not supported by any type of statistics, and essentially, these became nothing more than just rumors, but it made people weary of giving their kids vaccinations when they may not be sure what the correct thing is to do. From that point on until 2012, studies were conducted to see if they could find a link between autism and vaccines. Millions of tests had been conducted on children, and not one study found a link between autism and vaccines. In 2012, they conducted a study that related vaccine refusals to a large outbreak of whooping cough in California.

Throughout the years, scientists have studied autism and have seen great improvements in the symptoms you see along with it, like being unsociable or having issues with verbal communication. They have discovered that “the average age at which children are diagnosed with autism is four when their brains aren’t as malleable, many children with the developmental disorder have missed the chance for early treatment” (Krisberg., 2018). They have discovered that the key to a better outcome when dealing with autism is to catch it within the first few years of a child’s life.

Usually, symptoms are discoverable around 18 months of age. If this is done, the child may have a better chance of being more socially interactive or contracting far superior motor skills when becoming older. Within the last year, a researcher from Yale University School of Medicine by the name of Chawarska has conducted an experiment with the involvement of “120 pregnant mothers who previously gave birth to a child with autism—and have a greater risk of doing so again—and 30 pregnant mothers who didn’t. Researchers will conduct brain imaging on the fetuses in late pregnancy and again shortly after birth. The babies will then be followed until they turn two” (Krisberg., 2018). It is said that children can display signs of inadequacies in social attention as young as six months.

Paying attention to the early stages of an autistic child is very important; this allows for the help to correct future habits that may occur while it is still early in the stages of this disease, as new research has shown. This allows the child’s brain to have the opportunity to be reconfigured and helps the child maintain necessary motor skills and correct other disabilities that may occur depending on the child. This disease can be effectively scary for parents who are having their first baby. Successfully scientists are starting to make a breakthrough in studying autism, and once more studies can be performed, many of us will have an even better understanding of this disease. Due to the first suggestions pertaining to autism being linked to vaccinations in young children, scientists had to waste many years to determine whether or not this allocation was correct or not.

References:

1. What is Autism? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.myautism.org/all-about-autism/what-is-autism
2. The Science Facts about Autism and Vaccines. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthcare-management-degree.net/autism-vaccines/
3. Scientists Closer Than Ever to Earlier Treatments for Autism. (2018, January 23). Retrieved from https://news.aamc.org/research/article/scientists-closer-ever-earlier-treatments-autism
4. What causes autism? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/autism/conditioninfo/causes

Exploring the Complex Relationship between Autism and the Nervous System

Autism Treatment Approaches

How is Autism related to the Nervous System? Autism is related to the nervous in many ways. One way is that it triggers emotions like anxiety and social abnormalities. Those aspects are all linked to the nervous system. (www.sciencedaily.com) Autism affects the function and structure of the brain and the Nervous system. Some of the disabilities are behavioral issues, movement disorders, learning difficulties, and problems with brain functioning. Other disabilities can be intellectual problems and problems with memory. (autism.lovetoknow.com) Autism is related to the nervous system in many different ways. The Nervous system affects some disabilities and emotions. The nervous system also affects memory and a lot of other things. (www.nichd.nih.gov) How does Autism affect the size of the brain? Yes, Autism does affect the size of the brain.

Over 20% of kids with Autism have early brain overgrowth (www.spectrumnews.org). You can start to notice brain overgrowth a few months after birth. Brain overgrowth is due to the head circumference (onlinelibrary.wiley.com). Also, abnormal brain overgrowth usually happens during the first two years with kids with Autism. Most of the brain overgrowth happens in the cerebrum, which is found in the complex surface of the brain that connects to the fibrous contact beneath the brain. Leo Kanner was the first person who made an observation on how Autism affects the size of the brain. Kanner did an experiment with eight boys and three and noticed that most of the kids’ heads were bigger than the normal-sized brains. Later he determined that they had symptoms of Autism. (en.wikipedia.org) 3) How is Autism treated? Autism is treated by first observing the health conditions that the autistic patient has. Some examples could be epilepsy, Gastrointestinal problems, feeding, Sleep disturbances, and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Twin Autism Susceptibility

This helps with future health problems. (www.autismspeaks.org) (https://www.autismspeaks.org/treatments) Another way to treat Autism is to give autistic patients the option of medication. To take this medication, the patient should always talk to their doctor to make sure the medication is chosen in the form of treatment. Some examples of knowing how to choose the right medication for the autistic patient are comparing the options you have and learning about the medication and side effects. (www.autismspeaks.org)

Another type of treatment for autistic patients is therapy. Some examples of therapy that the autistic patient might use are anger management and behavior therapy. These therapies will help the patient be more ready for the outside world. 4) Is it possible for twins to both have Autism? Yes, twins can both have Autism. From the first known autistic twins born in 1977, scientists have found out that if one twin has Autism, then the other twin is 80% likely to have Autism. Some environmental risks for Autism, such as exposure to a maternal immune response with some problems during childbirth, may cause problems that will change or intensify Autism. (www.spectrumnews.org)

Even if the twins are fraternal, then the fraternal twins will still share Autism. The twins share the same environment. So if the mom were to get sick during her pregnancy, then the autistic twins would also be affected. (www.spectrumnews.org) Sometimes, it can be discordant, which means that one twin has a condition and the other one does. An example would be that one twin has Autism, and the other one does not have Autism. So twins can both have Autism, but sometimes they don’t both have Autism. (iancommunity.org) 5) How can Autism be prevented, and how could Autism be cured? Autism can not be cured, but autistic kids can use take a few treatments to help with their Autism.

Early Interventions and Prevention

This treatment is only available for children under three. The treatment is possible because of the IDEA ( The Individuals with disabilities education act ). (www.webmd.com) The treatment is called Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The treatment is often used in schools and clinics to help the child learn positive behaviors and reduce negative emotions. There is another treatment that is called Developmental, individual differences, relationship-based support (DIR). This treatment helps with the child’s emotional and intellectual growth. Autism can be prevented by not drinking while the person is pregnant. Also, something that can help prevent Autism is having a healthy diet and having regular check-ups. Having good parental care is another way you can prevent Autism.

Reference:

1. ScienceDaily. (2016, June 9). Autism’s gender patterns: Researchers uncover sex differences in brain connectivity. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/06/160609134247.htm
2. Hazlett, H. C., Gu, H., McKinstry, R. C., Shaw, D. W. W., Botteron, K. N., & Dager, S. R., … & Piven, J. (2005). Brain volume findings in 6-month-old infants at high familial risk for autism. American Journal of Psychiatry, 162(2), 281-283. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/mrdd.20020
3. WebMD. (n.d.). Understanding Autism Treatment. https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/understanding-autism-treatment#1
4. Interactive Autism Network. (2009, October). An Update on the Prevalence of Autism and the Factors That May Be Driving It: A Video Q&A with Dr. Edwin Cook. https://iancommunity.org/cs/ian_research_reports/ian_research_report_oct_2009

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Understanding Autism: Prevalence, Impact, and Research Focus

Understanding Autism can be very difficult. It is one of the most common diseases that children in the United States have today. The professional term for Autism is Autism Spectrum Disorder, also known as (ASD). Autism was first introduced in 1911 when a Swiss Psychiatrist named Eugen Bleuler referred to it as a symptom of Schizophrenia. After it was officially discovered in 1943, researchers in the United States used the term to describe children with a mental condition that came with many disabilities.

According to Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, behavioral symptoms of Autism begin to show as early as twelve to eighteen months of age. Autism is on the rise in the United States, and there is still no cure for it yet. With so many advances in today’s society, one might think there is a solution to this disease, but sadly there still isn’t. Many individuals in the United States are still not completely informed about ASD. I will be addressing more information on this compelling subject and will delve into the principles of how ASD is caused, diagnosed, and treated.

Although there is no cure for Autism yet, there have been many treatments created, and the reason is that ‘ASD occurs in every racial and ethnic group, and across all socioeconomic levels’ (Jones 4). ASD is likely to happen to anyone regarding the factors of whether they are of a different ethnicity, born in a different country, have different income levels, etc. According to the Autism Society, more than three million Americans live under the radar of the disorder. Autism is also one of the fastest-growing disabilities in the United States. It is considered fast-growing due to the fact that there hasn’t been a cure for the disease, and that is because the factors that cause Autism are also unknown.

A statistical report in 2014 stated that the annual cost of Autism services is from two hundred thirty-six dollars to two hundred sixty-two billion dollars. The majority of the money is used on adults yearly. Children with disability use up to one hundred ninety-six billion dollars a year, set against adults who use two hundred sixty-two billion dollars a year. Autism has been a very misunderstood health issue since it was discovered by an American child psychiatrist named Leo Kanner in 1943. It has affected the lives of many Americans, and therefore, research has been highly encouraged to continue in the United States.

Diagnosing Autism: Steps and Challenges

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diagnosing Autism can be very difficult because there is no medical test to automatically detect the disease. For example, a simple blood test that can easily identify if someone has Diabetes would not be able to identify if the child has Autism. Diagnosing Autism is a bit challenging because it takes time to identify if the child has Autism. After reading about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, I clearly understood the idea of how it is diagnosed. Diagnosing ASD takes two steps: Developmental Screening and Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation.

First, the Developmental Screening is a short test in which the doctor asks the child a series of questions that determines if the child has the basic learning skills that correspond to his/her age. The doctor will also interact with the child by playing and speaking to the child. In addition, the doctor will be asking the parents of the child for additional information to make the diagnosis more efficient. Since children are more prone to developing Autism at a very young age, a hindrance to any of these activities with the child can reflect the possibility of developing Autism.

Also, ‘ children who are born prematurely or with low birth weight are at greater risk for developing ASD’ (Jones 26). Regular check-ups will be necessary when the child is three years or younger. If the child seems to be delayed in basic skills for his/her age, additional check-ups might be required, but most importantly, they are required in order to identify if the child is autistic or is developing Autism. Second, the Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation test is a thorough review of the child’s behavior and development with communication. It also includes the testing of hearing, vision screening, genetic testing, neurological testing, and many more medical tests included.

According to Keith Jones, a list to identify if a child is autistic at an early age is if he/she doesn’t respond to his/her name, has poor eye contact, and has no smiling or social responsiveness. Later in age, one can identify if the child is autistic if he/she lacks the ability to make friends, the ability to sustain a conversation with someone, repetitive language, and more. In other cases, the primary pediatrician of the child will refer the child to a specialist who will go further with the diagnosis. The specialist will include tests that will mainly focus on the brain of the child, which would also benefit the research on ASD. Every child that is being treated and diagnosed is helping scientists come to conclusions on how ASD s caused and how it can be cured.

Genetics, Environment, and Autism Etiology

Furthermore, doctors believe that genetics and the environment of the child play a big part in being Autistic. ‘Studies suggest that ASD could be a result of disruption in normal brain growth very early in development. These disruptions may be the result of defects in genes that control brain development and regulate how brain cells communicate with each other (Jones 5). According to Shirley Cohen, the author of ‘Targeting Autism,’ states the causes of Autism are unknown, but there has been evidence that demonstrates that environmental stressors, genetic mutations, and other factors in the environment play an extremely important role in the life of an autistic child. An autistic child can be disturbed in many ways; it all varies because every child is very different.

An example of how the environment can fluster an autistic child is the change in schedule. When I was in high school last year, I volunteered to help the kids who had Autism. And I learned many things about them. For example, I noticed that the kids would get anxious, frustrated, and mad when the schedule would change. The autistic kids were used to a set schedule that any little change would turn over their behavior for the rest of the day. Sudden noises and movements would also get them to become upset. It was very important to understand why the kid was upset in order to help them all. On good days, the kids would participate and be engaged in class effortlessly if the teacher followed the set schedule. Otherwise, the kids would feel irritated, making it hard to get them to concentrate and participate in the activities.

As mentioned before, many scientists don’t know the causes of Autism, but according to Doctor Michael Chez, ‘ASD is one of the most inheritable conditions based on studies that have been focused on families with twins. Monozygotic or identical twins have a 90 percent correlation for inheritance if Autism occurs, while non-identical twins have a 10 percent correlation’ (Chez 77). Doctor Chez has concluded that families with twins are more prone to having Autism in the family. Studies in the last decade have also identified 65 genes that link to Autism and play a role in the brain (The Genetics of Autism). Genes are what make up the DNA in a child, which happens to be inherited from the child’s parents in the first place.

Previously, I mentioned how scientists believe that Autism can be the result of any defects that the genes have. The National Institute of Health states that ‘ a gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity.’ It is known that genes are inherited, and according to Lisa Jo Rudy, the writer of the article ‘Link Between Genetics and Autism,’ every human has 20,000 to 25,000 genes. In fact, she mentions how only 1 percent of our genes define the difference from one another. The child can also develop Autism even before it’s born; for example, when the mother is pregnant, and she is exposed to other diseases, the baby is also exposed and is prone to developing Autism as it continues to grow. When a child is born with Autism, it means that normal brain development was disrupted as the child was developing. With this in mind, research is still being conducted today to figure out how Autism is developed even before the child is born.

References:

1. Jones, Keith. “Autism Spectrum Disorder: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment.” Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, vol. 62, no. 2, 2021, pp. 4-30.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder.” CDC, www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/screening.html.
3. Cohen, Shirley. “Targeting Autism: Environmental Stressors and Genetic Mutations.” Journal of Developmental Disorders, vol. 48, no. 3, 2019, pp. 125-142.
4. Chez, Michael. “Genetic Factors in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Insights from Twin Studies.” Journal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, vol. 45, no. 1, 2018, pp. 77-92.
5. The Genetics of Autism. National Institute of Mental Health, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd/index.shtml.
6. Rudy, Lisa Jo. “Link Between Genetics and Autism.” Psychology Today, 18 May 2020, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/autism-diagnosis/202005/link-between-genetics-and-autism.

Enhancing the Lives of Children with Autism: Policies, Education, and Support

Autism’s Lifelong Impact: Early Intervention and Adult Challenges

Children with autism spectrum disorder in Florida present a significant public health issue in today’s society. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability. It is quite complex and typically occurs during childhood. It is chronic and never resolves itself. ASD has an effect on a child’s ability to communicate with others. It may present as difficulty making eye contact with speech and language delays. The other symptoms include difficulties in the areas of reasoning, planning, sensory, and motor skills. Children with Autism typically have very narrow and intense interests and become severely agitated with changes in their routines. Common comingling conditions that are part and parcel of the landscape of ASD include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), high anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. (‘Early Screening,’ 2018)

Currently, there is no known cause of Autism, although there is thought to be some genetic link. It is not uncommon to see more than one child in a family with this condition. The pediatrician usually makes the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. This can occur as early as eighteen months of age. (‘Autism Facts,’ 2018) Upon this diagnosis, there is a referral to a specialist, which can include a neurologist, psychologist, and board-certified behavioral analyst. As there is no cure, the approach to treatment is to address the individual symptoms. Research has proven that increased awareness, early diagnosis, and early intervention produce the best health outcomes. (‘National Autism Society,’ 2018) Early diagnosis leads to access to necessary speech, behavioral, physical, and occupational therapies, which is the reason for the positive improvements and overall outcomes. (‘CARD,’ 2018)

As of 2018, the prevalence of Autism is one in fifty-nine births in the United States. This number has increased significantly over the years. In 2004 the rate of Autism in US births was one in one hundred and twenty-five. In fourteen years, the number of cases has doubled, and there is no known reason for this increase. (‘Autism Facts and Statistics,’ 2018) The costs of treating Autism over the course of a lifetime are approximately two and one half million dollars. It is estimated that the United States pays out ninety million annually in costs related to ASD. (‘Learn The Signs,’ 2018) These high annual expenditures include monies spent on research, Medicaid waivers, education, housing, employment, non-covered services, insurance costs, and caregiver costs.

Autism has no cure, and therapies are directed at treating the symptoms. The best outcomes are achieved when the condition is diagnosed early, and the treatment modalities are implemented very early on a regular and consistent basis. Children with Autism grow into adults with Autism, and the condition does not resolve itself. Adults with Autism can lead productive, independent, economically independent lives. Often they achieve success in their fields of study, and there are many highly educated professional men and women who have a form of Autism. In some cases, by the time an autistic child has grown into an adult, the signs of Autism become less apparent to the casual outside observer. The costs of treating Autism are extremely expensive due to the types, frequency, and duration of the treatments. Children with Autism who receive a late diagnosis and do not receive the necessary therapies and treatments grow into adults who have great difficulties.

Supporting Autistic Individuals through Guided Principles

These difficulties typically lead to the autistic person being unable to work and become self-supportive and independent. The results are often adults who rely on numerous forms of public support in order to manage. These supports can include Medicaid, Social Security Disability, SNAP, federal housing vouchers, and numerous other public aides. The goals are to enhance develop and enhance programs aimed at early diagnosis and intervention. Policies that serve to protect the civil rights of autistic people and allow for access to all areas of education, employment, housing, healthcare, and society in general. Autistic children are a vulnerable population with special health and educational needs. However, these needs are relatively easy to meet with the implementation of appropriate policies.

Policies that are developed for the purpose of enhancing the lives of children, adolescents, and young adults with ASD should demonstrate adherence to certain guiding principles. Policies should be people-centered, allowing the individual the right to choose to access services that are in line with their goals and aspirations. Policies should be built upon strong community networks that integrate services and resources and lead to healthy development.

Collaboration between non-disabled groups with the alignment of common goals should be implemented to achieve policy change on a systemic level. Policies should make certain that all supports and services are portable from one state to another. This includes all healthcare, educational, and all other related supports. Policies should address the inequity in the services available to individuals with a disability and autism spectrum disorder. Policies should serve to make the goals and wishes of the individual a priority throughout, with input from necessary family and team members. Policies should be culturally sensitive, ensure respect, and appreciate diversity. (‘ Autism Resources FDOH,’ 2017).

Autism is a lifelong chronic disease with no known cure. The prevalence of Autism is increasing annually with no known reason. There is always going to be a need for policies to protect this vulnerable population. Currently, there are a few policies that contain the necessary provisions to make a positive impact on the autistic community. In order to promote awareness, the CDC developed a program called Learn the Signs Act Early. The goal of this program is to improve early identification of ASD and other developmental disabilities. Children and families are then linked to the necessary services and support. Learn the Signs Act Early is comprised of a health education campaign, research, evaluation, and the Act Early Initiative. (‘Act Early Ambassadors,’ 2016)

The health education component of the act encourages parents and providers to understand normal development and closely monitor a child’s development, taking immediate action when there is any concern. Tools such as checklists, children’s books, mobile apps, and resource information are provided at no cost. The milestones checklists are from ages two months to five years; a growth chart is included. The mobile application for ios and Android phones includes an interactive checklist and tips for supporting development. There are educational videos and a free one-hour online training for childcare providers. There are tip sheets to assist parents when speaking with their physicians when there is a concern. (‘Learn The Signs,’ 2018)

As part of the Act Early Initiative, there are advocates in the program known as Act Early Ambassadors. These ambassadors collaborate with early childhood intervention programs in their individual states or territories. In this way, developmental monitoring and screening are both supported and advanced. (‘Act Early Ambassadors,’ 2016) Research and evaluation are conducted to develop strategies to implement materials in practice specifically to improve the learning of the signs of ASD and to improve the program materials. It is also done to increase understanding of the factors which have an influence on monitoring and referrals for intervention. Program materials are designed for parents, healthcare providers, early care education teachers, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) staff, and all others who work with young children. The information is available in multiple languages and can be downloaded or ordered from the CDC via their website or by calling a toll-free number. (‘Learn The Signs,’ 2018)

Transforming Education for Autism Inclusion

The Individual Disability Education Act (IDEA) is a Federal Education Mandate which allows autistic children to be educated in the public school system. Prior to the IDEA, children with Autism were excluded from the public school system. They were not allowed to learn in the same classroom environment as their typical peers. Prior to the act, the educational needs of millions of disabled children were not being met. Improving education for children with Autism increases their ability to become self-sustainable adults with consistent employment. Increased education leads to independent living, integration into society, economic independence, and better quality of life. (‘IDEA,’ 2018) Through the IDEA, the educational and legal rights of children have been strengthened.

The IDEA provided for the creation of a public school environment where the child with ASD is welcomed, safe, and a valuable member of the class and school. The act allowed for a seamless and positive transition between elementary, middle, and high school. It further enhanced a successful transition into college, employment, or meaningful day activities. It created a level of appreciation in the public schools for diversity and laid the foundation for equity in education.

The education of children with Autism can be enhanced by maintaining high learning expectations. Children on the spectrum have proven to perform better academically when placed in the same classroom as their typical peers. The IDEA oversees early learning programs such as early interventions and preschool programs. It maintains that these children should be educated in the least restrictive educational environment and provides services in the school.

The schools are mandated to implement an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for the child with ASD. Within the IEP, there will be numerous accommodations provided, which include extended test times, assistance with navigating the school campus, technology, and assistive devices. Often the child will be assigned an individual facilitator who oversees the child’s daily routine. The public school is required to provide related services under the IDEA. These can include therapies such as speech and language, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and counseling services. Assistance with organization, homework, and staying on task is provided in the school setting. (‘IDEA LAW,’ 2017)

Elevating Equity and Excellence for ASD Education

Under the IDEA, the IEP of an autistic child is considered a legal document. Meetings occur only with formal notice and are held annually by law. Parents are advised of their legal rights and their ability to attend the IEP meetings and bring their own physicians, psychologists, advocates, educational lawyers, and other pertinent members. Parents are given access to their child’s records by the school and may request interim IEP meetings as frequently as every thirty days. Public schools are required to provide due process to children when there is a dispute concerning their education.

ASD children in the public school system have protection under the Office of Civil Rights, and complaints concerning the public school are filed with this agency. The IDEA has made major improvements and advances in the education of children with ASD. It has allowed these children to maximize their greatest level of potential and lead productive, independent lives while positively contributing to society. It has set a level of expectation that children with ASD are capable of secondary education, gainful employment, community service, and volunteerism. (‘IDEA,’ 2018)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was signed into law by President Barack Obama in December 2015. It includes provisions that help to ensure success for disabled children in public schools. The ESSA is significant as it is the first law to require that all students in this country be taught to high academic standards. These high standards apply to all children, disabled and nondisabled. ESSA provides an enhancement to education equity standards and upholds important protections for ASD and disabled students.

Another key facet of the ESSA is that it helps to support evidenced-based interventions developed by educators to enhance the learning environment. The ESSA increases access to high-quality preschool programs for ASD children. The ESSA has strict guidelines and maintains there will be strict accountability within the school system. It contains specific guidelines and protocols for schools that are underperforming and have low graduation rates. It has further enhanced the laws contained within the IDEA allowing for the best outcomes in the education of disabled and ASD children. (‘ESSA FL,’ 2018)

The aim of any policy directed at improving the lives of children with Autism requires an inherent understanding of the nature of this lifelong disease. People with Autism have tremendous potential, which can be equal to or greater than their typical peers. Autistic children can grow to lead productive, successful, economically independent lives while greatly contributing to society. Advocacy groups and professional organizations such as Autism Speaks, the Center for Autism Research and Development, and the National Autism Association provide necessary support and guidance for those newly diagnosed and seeking information.

References:

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