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A new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report
says autism is more common than previously thought.
For decades,
the best estimate for the prevalence of autism was two to six per 1000 children.
Recent studies by the CDC in multiple
U.S.
communities using current diagnostic criteria and conducted with different methods
indicated autism is prevalent in up to one in 150 children.
“Although
the numbers of children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) have risen over the past
decade, it is unclear whether there is a true increase in ASDs or if the changes are the
result of improved diagnoses and awareness of the disease," said Dr. Anatole Karpovs,
pediatrician at the Children's Clinic of SWLA. "We do know that these disorders
affect more families than previously thought."
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are developmental disabilities that cause substantial
impairments in social interaction and communication and the presence of unusual behaviors
and interests. Many people with ASDs also have unusual ways of learning, paying attention,
and reacting to different sensations. The thinking and learning abilities of people with
ASDs can vary—from gifted to severely challenged. An ASD begins before the age of 3
and lasts throughout a person's life.
“We are learning more
every day about the symptoms and diagnoses of ASDs, but we need to learn more about what
causes it,” said Karpovs.
“Early
diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve development.
It is important for parents, and childcare
providers to recognize the development milestones in the first few years of life, such as
smiling, pointing and waving bye-bye.”
“Routine well child
check-ups are important for the pediatricians to perform basic developmental screenings to
identify children with developmental problems,” Karpovs said.
“It is also important for parents to talk to
their pediatrician about any concerns about their child’s development.”
The CDC’s awareness
campaign, “Learn the Signs, Act Early”, offers the following guide to help
parents know the developmental milestones they need to look for as their child grows:
By 8 months your baby
should:
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Turn head when name is called
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Smile back at another person
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Respond to sound with sound
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Enjoy social play (such as
peek-a-boo)
By 12 months
your baby should:
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Wave good-bye
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Say “da-da” and
“ma-ma”
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Imitate actions in their play
(clap when you clap)
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Respond when told “no”
By 18 months
your baby should:
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Do simple pretend play (“talk”
on a toy phone)
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Point to interesting objects
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Look at object when you point
to it and say “look”
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Use several single words
unprompted
By 24 months
your child should:
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Use 2 to 4 word phrases
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Follow simple instructions
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Become more interested in
other children
·
Point to object or picture
when named
By 36 months
your child should:
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Show affection for playmates
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Use 4 to 5 word sentences
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Imitate adults and playmates
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Play make-believe with dolls,
people, etc.
By 4 years you
child should:
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Use 5 to 6 word sentences
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Follow 3 step commands (“Get
dressed, comb your hair, and wash your
face)
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Cooperate with other children
For
more information on Autism visit
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) |
