Autism
Description of Autism:
Autism is a brain development disorder characterized by impaired social
interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. These
signs all begin before a child is three years old. The autism spectrum disorders
(ASD) also include related conditions with milder signs and symptoms.
Autism has a strong genetic basis, although the genetics of autism are
complex and it is unclear whether ASD is explained more by multigene
interactions or by rare mutations. In rare cases, autism is strongly associated
with agents that cause birth defects. Other proposed causes, such as childhood
vaccines, are controversial, and the vaccine hypotheses lack any convincing
scientific evidence. The prevalence of ASD is about 6 per 1,000 people, with
about four times as many boys as girls. The number of people known to have
autism has increased dramatically since the 1980s, partly due to changes in
diagnostic practice; the question of whether actual prevalence has increased is
unresolved.
Autism affects many parts of the brain; how this occurs is not understood.
Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child's life.
Although early behavioral or cognitive intervention can help children gain self-care,
social, and communication skills, there is no known cure. Few children with
autism live independently after reaching adulthood, but some become successful,
and an autistic culture has developed, with some seeking a cure and others
believing that autism is a condition rather than a disorder.
Specific Autism Information
Articles, questions and answers.
