What is Autism?

Autism is a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes repetitive and restricted behaviour. Our daughter Chloe can get obsessed with certain objects such as shoe insoles. In recent months, using shoe insoles as an example, she has to have one particular insole and becomes very upset, usually ending in a big temper tantrum if she does not have the exact one.

Autism is highly heritable, although the genetics of Autism are complex and it is generally unclear which genes are responsible. Other proposed causes, such as childhood vaccines are more controversial and lack convincing scientific evidence.

Most recent reviews estimate a prevalence of one or two cases per 1,000 people for Autism and around six per 1,000 for ASD averaging a 4.3:1 male-to-female ratio. The number of people thought to have autism has risen dramatically since the 1980’s partly due to changes in diagnostic practice. The question many people ask is has the condition increased in general with the world population? This is unresolved. My own personal thoughts are that just more people are being diagnosed due to a wider and greater understanding of the condition. Diagnosis at an early age is the key.

Autism affects many parts of the brain, how this occurs is poorly understood. Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child’s life. Early behavioural or cognitive intervention can help your child gain self-care, communication and social skills. There is no cure and few children live independently after reaching adulthood but many become successful in other ways. Some have become great mathematicians, others can play musical instruments with great skill. An Autistic culture has been developing around the world with some people seeking a cure and others believing that Autism is a condition rather than a disorder.