Month raises awareness of autism, risks

It’s all over the news. According to the Centers of Disease control, one out of 88 children, five times more likely boys than girls, are being diagnosed with autism.

They believe that some of this 23 percent increase over 2007 can be attributed to how children are identified, diagnosed and served in their local communities. However, how much is still unknown.

Then a study was published in the journal Pediatrics this week that states women who had diabetes, hypertension or were obese proved 1.61 times as likely as healthy women to have children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Although child development experts have deemed the study interesting, they believe it’s premature to credit the results with the dramatic rise in diagnosed cases.

A study reported in August of last year stated that although there’s no conclusive research on the cause of autism, it is known is that an infant with an older autistic sibling will have nearly a 19 percent risk that they too will develop ASD.

Some reports say that a man over the age of 40 will be more likely to conceive an autistic child.

For those of us unfamiliar with the disorder, it might be helpful to understand more about it and with April being Autism Awareness month what better time than now?

The Mayo Clinic defines autism as one of a group of serious developmental problems that usually appears before a child is three years old. Though symptoms and severity vary, all ASDs affect a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others.

There’s no cure, but intensive, early treatment can make a big difference in the child’s life.

All children develop at different rates, but there are some red flag warnings that parents, caregivers and family members should be looking for. They include:

n No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter

n No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine months or thereafter

n No babbling by 12 months

n No back-and-forth gestures, such as pointing, showing, reaching, or waving by 12 months

n No words by 16 months

n No two-word meaningful phrases (without imitating or repeating) by 24 months

See AUSTISM, Page 11

n Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age

Because autism varies widely in severity, making a diagnosis may be difficult. There isn’t a specific medical test to pinpoint the disorder. Your pediatrician will look for signs of developmental delays and possibly refer you to a specialist.

Raising a child with autism can be physically and emotionally draining. Parents should find a team of trusted professionals who can help to locate resources including a support network. They should find time for themselves and other family members.

So, what’s the long term prognosis if your child is diagnosed with autism? Obviously it will depend on its severity and your child’s IQ. It will also depend on how early ASD is detected and how well your child adapts to therapy.

Although it’s known that symptoms will decrease with age, the core problems, such as difficulties with social interaction, generally remain. According to some experts, a child with an I.Q. above 50, who had the ability to speak before age six and has a useful skill will have a better chance of an independent life.

There are many misconceptions about autism. Learning the truth can help all of us understand ASD and the challenges for both the parents and children afflicted.

Kathy Hubbard is a trustee on Bonner General Hospital Foundation Board. She can be reached at kathyleehubbard@yahoo.com, 264-4029.