Autism is a neurodevelopment disorder which is also called as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A person with an ASD typically has difficulty with social and communication skills. It can also be identified by restrictive and repetitive behavior.

Causes |
It has number of possible causes. Most prominent are Genetic and Environmental causes.

Genetic vulnerability |
Children who have certain medical conditions like tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome are more likely to have ASD.

Environmental Factors
Besides the genetic component, the other factor which places a major role of causing autism is environmental factors like exposure to toxins or illness during pregnancy.

How to diagnose the autism?

There is no specific test to diagnose Autism. So diagnosing may be difficult. But parents and doctors have a keen look at child’s behavior and development to diagnose this disorder. Children with Autism may fail to respond to their names and used to avoid eye contact. They face problems in understanding others expressions and interpreting others thinking. Most common symptom is repetitive actions over again again.

 Treatment
There is no known cure for Autism. But children recover occasionally with appropriate treatment and education.  Treatment depends on the needs of individual. It may include behavioral management therapy, educational and school based therapy, joint attention therapy, nutritional therapy, physical therapy, social skills training, speech language therapy and many others.

 Facts

• 2^nd April is world Autism awareness day
• Not all, but some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art.
• Males are four times more likely to have an ASD than females.
• Children who have sibling with ASD are more likely to have an ASD.
• Children born to older parents are at greater risk for having ASD.