Why fit in when you were born to stand out – Dr. Suess
World Autism Awareness Day is observed on the 2nd of April with the theme ‘Moving from Surviving to Thriving’. According to a study published in 2021 in the Indian Journal of Paediatrics, 1 in 68 children in India have autism. This number is steadily on the increase.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects an individual’s social skills, communication and self-regulation. It is a ‘spectrum’ disorder because its impact can range widely among individuals, from mild to severe, with varied abilities and challenges.
The exact cause of autism is not known. However, recognizing early signs of autism in an individual and seeking professional advice will
- impact the quality of life
- provide early support to develop to their full potential
- help reduce the stigma and make the journey less challenging for affected families
The Developmental Paediatrics Unit in CMC Vellore has a multidisciplinary and experienced team that looks after children with autism. They released a book called The Start of a Journey – A guide for parents of children diagnosed to have Autism Spectrum Disorder. This has basic information about ASD, symptoms and treatment. Click here to read and share this booklet.
Details contributed by the Developmental Paediatrics Unit
