What makes detection of Autism Difficult–

 

What makes detection of Autism Difficult– 

                                                           Intervention is the Best care

 Mrs Shah’s instincts told her something was wrong when her son Ravi, then two, stopped singing his favourite song, “ Twinkle Twinkle Little Star “

Mrs Shah began to notice that her bright, happy toddler wasn’t talking much and he was no longer using gestures to communicate what he wanted. She said it was like a blank wall in front of him.

“Everyone goes through denial: No, Not my child.”

According to WHO, one in every 160 children worldwide is affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is a neurological condition where most children have a hard time speaking in the public or become extreme introverts or extroverts. A study described the commonest presenting complaints as delayed development, speech delay and ‘being lost in one’s own world’. Other symptoms included poor eye contact, impaired joint attention, and no interest in toys or inappropriate use of toys and difficulty in toilet training. Symptoms wary from mild to severe. Though the disorder is most often diagnosed after age three, milder forms might go undetected until after a child begins school.

 While a person with ASD might have a specific difficulty in certain areas, they also tend to get very interested in particular subjects. And displaying this ability to be an inspiration to many others. We get to know many such stories through different media.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects individuals across social, ethnic and geographic groups. However, the way it is perceived, understood, accepted and treated may vary across regions, depending on cultural beliefs and practices.

History of autism in India dates back to as early as1943 when A Ronald, a Viennese paediatrician in Darjeeling, gave an overview of the symptoms, aetiology, types and treatment of ‘difficult children’.

There is no known single cause for Autism Spectrum Disorder but studies suggest possible role of both genetic and environmental factors. Pre- and perinatal events like disorders of pregnancy, labour complications, foetal distress, low birth weight and premature birth have been studied and implicated in ASD. These risk factors are common in India, and have significant impact on the developmental outcome of children.

Screening is a key step to identify children at risk for ASD and to facilitate early behavioural and educational interventions to improve outcomes. The Indian Academy of Paediatrics has recently issued guidelines for screening for ASD at 18 months and 24 months of age, using ASD specific screening too

 It is well established that Autism Spectrum Disorders cannot be cured, however early intervention can bring about fruitful results. Behavioural and educational interventions form the cornerstone of Autism therapy. However, most of these evidence-based interventions require specialized and highly trained professionals that are available in only a handful of government institutions. Private centre-based services provide sessions on a daily or alternate day basis, but the therapies are expensive and affordability becomes a significant issue for families from middle and lower socio-economic strata. There is a lot of emphasis on occupational therapy. It is of great help and will focus on sensory integration, behavioural control, need-based communication, adaptive living and functional academics with development of social skills with play.

 Children living outside the major cities have virtually no access to any kind of intervention or therapy, and are at the mercy of local healers, and dubious therapies. Strong need of awareness against occult science amongst illiterate community.

Raising a child with ASD puts tremendous strain on the parents and caregivers due to increased responsibility and social stigma. The stress of caring for a child with autism can affect the psychological and emotional wellbeing of parents and generate interpersonal conflict. .

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 has included ASD under the category of disabilities. Subsequent to certification, children with ASD can avail special benefits like inclusive education, scholarships, free travel in state transport buses, railway concessions, loans for self-employment and assistance for higher education

Socio-cultural factors play a major role in early identification, diagnosis and management of Autism Spectrum Disorder. There is a need to enhance awareness of ASD and its impact on families in order to facilitate early detection and intervention. Also, the need of the hour is to expand appropriate evidence based services in health, educational and social sector. Strong policy initiatives may help persons with ASD attain their maximum potential and dignity, as well as mitigate the gap between them and the ‘normal’ population.

This article is not just to highlight difficulties on your way to ASD. It’s to offer you hope if you have a child on the autism spectrum.

Your child is far more intelligent than he gets credit for. You see shades of it in him, but don’t know how to bring it out. Given the right set of tools, your child can achieve great heights and make you proud.

During your darkest days, don’t give up. When your faith is shaken, stand up once again. Believe in your child’s competence.  Your child will manifest his own potential too.

Do not give up – EVER.

Dr. Mona Shah

Occupational Therapist, Clinical Psychologist

www.anshucentre.com

Dr.monarehabcentre@gmail.com