Focus on: Autism spectrum disorder

April is Autism Awareness Month and there is a lot in the news about autism. More and more children — up to one out of 68 — are diagnosed with autism. Sesame Street even has a new character, Julia, who has autism. But what exactly is this condition, how does it affect children and what can you do to help? What is autism? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex disorder of very early brain development that is approximately four times more common in boys than girls. Autism spectrum disorder was previously recognized as several separate disorders — including autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger’s disorder. Based on their shared symptoms, these disorders were merged under a single ASD diagnosis in 2013. What are the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder? Different children can be affected in very different ways, but they share two main categories of symptoms: difficulty with social communication and social interactions repetitive behaviors and restricted or unusual interests, including sensory symptoms such as heightened sensitivity to noise, touch or smell Contact the Boston Children’s Autism Spectrum Center at 617-355-7493 to speak with someone who can help. I think my child might have autism. What should I do? Autism is currently diagnosed through close observation of a child’s symptoms and development. Babies and toddlers should be screened for ASD and other developmental issues at their reg...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Diseases & Conditions Parenting autism Autism Spectrum Center autism spectrum disorder Dr. Carolyn Bridgemohan Dr. Sarah Spence Source Type: news