35 Things to Know About Autism

35 Things to Know About Autism

There is still a great deal to learn about autism despite previous and recent increase in awareness and comprehension of the condition. Millions of people around the world have autism, which is a complicated condition that is more often than not misunderstood. Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton and Daryl Hannah are but a few of the well-known people from history who have been diagnosed with autism and gone on to be extremely successful in their respective fields. This article aims to enlighten you on 35 things you need to know about autism. We will examine what autism is, from the fundamentals of how it is diagnosed to its possible causes. The information herewithin may thus be useful for parents, caregivers, educators and anyone else interested in learning more about it.

1. Why Autism Spectrum?

A picture drawn by an Autistic child. Image by MissLunaRose from Wikimedia

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person perceives and processes information, particularly in the areas of communication, social interaction and behaviour. The Autism experience is different for everyone. It is defined by a certain set of behaviours and is often referred to as a “spectrum condition” that affects people differently and to varying degrees. Some individuals with ASD may have mild symptoms and be able to function independently, while others may have more severe disabilities and require more support in their daily lives. The term “spectrum” reflects this range of skills and challenges. ASD is a complex and multifaceted disorder that is not fully understood.

2. The Etymology of Autism

The term “autism” has its roots in the Greek language, the word “autos” means “self” in a more general sense, such as “self-contained” or “self-directed.” The word “autism” was first coined in the early 20th century by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler, who used it to describe a symptom of schizophrenia. It was later popularized by child psychiatrist Leo Kanner, who used the term to describe a group of children who showed significant impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour.

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3. The Cause of Autism is Unknown

While the exact causes of Autism are not yet fully understood, research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental influences. Research shows that autism runs in families i.e. changes in certain genes increase the risk that a child will develop autism. If a parent carries one or more of these gene changes, they may get passed to a child (even if the parent does not have autism). In the same breadth, there is empirical evidence that certain environmental influences may further increase – or reduce – autism risk in people who are genetically predisposed to the disorder.

4. How to Diagnose Autism

Image by MissLunaRose12 from Wikimedia

By the age of three, the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDD) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that every child be examined for autism by their family paediatrician. The body recommends a minimum of three times exams: at 9 months, 18 months, and 24 or 30 months. Instead of waiting until a formal diagnosis is made, intervention should begin when an Autism diagnosis is suspected. Early identification is associated with dramatically better outcomes for people with Autism. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the earlier they can begin benefiting from early intervention therapies and education.

5. 70 Million is the Number

70 million people worldwide have a diagnosis of autism. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in 160 children worldwide has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), translating to approximately 70 million people worldwide. However, these estimates are based on prevalence studies carried out in specific nations and the actual number of people with autism may be higher due to under- or misdiagnosis in some regions. Prevalence estimates may also be affected by cultural and national differences in the diagnostic criteria and understanding of ASD.

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6. Autistic People have Difficulties with Verbal and Nonverbal Communication

Autism is characterized by difficulties in both verbal and nonverbal communication, including difficulties comprehending irony or sarcasm, utilizing and comprehending gestures, and expressing oneself. However, children with autism, in particular, possess a variety of communication abilities and skills. While some autistic children have excellent communication skills, others struggle to connect with others and communicate with them. Additionally, some autistic children struggle with language development, struggle to comprehend or use spoken language, or have no language at all. As a result, autistic children frequently require assistance in developing and practising communication skills.

7. Difficulty in Social Interaction

Image by MissLunaRose from Wikimedia

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is known to cause problems with social interactions. Individuals with ASD may have difficulty understanding and using nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, tone of voice and body language.  Some ASD patients may prefer to engage in solitary activities rather than interact with others and may find it difficult to make and maintain friendships. These social challenges can be a significant source of stress and frustration not only for people with ASD but also for their families and caregivers.

8. Can Lead to Compulsions

OCD can affect anyone, but research suggests that people with autism may be more likely to experience it. Obsessions, routines, and rituals are common among autistic children and teenagers. Some children possess all of these, while others only possess one or two. Teens and children with autism can be very focused on their favorite toys, activities, and conversations. An individual’s behavior can also be affected by autism, resulting in obsessive or repetitive behaviors, a fixation on particular topics or objects, and difficulty adjusting to new situations or routines. Obsessive-compulsive disorder and autism often accompany each other; Scientists are looking into how they differ from one another.

 For a List of 10 Famous People with ADHD, CLICK HERE

9. It was Originally Diagnosed as Schizophrenia

Autism was originally associated with schizophrenia in the early 20th century. This was largely due to the fact that social withdrawal and indifference to others were presented in both states. The term “autism” was first used in 1911 by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler to describe a symptom of schizophrenia. It was only in the 1940s and 50s, that researchers began to recognize autism as a distinct condition with its own diagnostic criteria. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction and behaviour while schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations and thought disorders.

10. Autism Can Affect Anyone!

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Autism can affect anyone regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background. ASD also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behaviour. Autism does not affect just a specific group of people. The disorder can affect anyone, anywhere, irrespective of creed, nationality, religion, colour, race etc.

11.  It Can be Managed

Individuals living with ASD keep on improving. The improvements are essential in helping people with autism express their emotions and freely co-exist with other people in the world.   Medical professionals advise people to strive to control the effects of autism as early as possible. With proper care and dedication, autism behaviours improve over time. Nonverbal people on the spectrum can learn sign language and visual cues to improve communication efforts. Since the disorder is not currently curable but manageable, the child’s skills should be based on early timing.                                                                     

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12. Autism is more Commonly Diagnosed in Males than Females

Studies have shown that autism is diagnosed more frequently in men than in women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in 54 children in the United States is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This means four times as many boys are diagnosed with ASD as girls. This gender gap in autism diagnosis is due to several factors, including but not limited to differences in brain development and genetic susceptibility between men and women. In Africa, ASD affects 1 in every 68 children, with boys at the highest risk than girls. The statistics point out that boys get autism five times faster than girls do.  

13.  There is no Cure for Autism

There is no cure for autism, but early intervention and treatment can improve outcomes. NHS UK stipulates that there is no cure for ASD and directs its GPs or local autism team to employ approaches that can help autistic people to develop daily living skills. It should be noted that autism is defined by behaviour—a difference in brain wiring. Brains are difficult to target for drug delivery, gene therapy and finding blood biomarkers. Brains are difficult to reduce to individual components and in the fields of language and socialization, human brains are unique. Some products or services, claiming to be cures or treatments for autism, are fake or can be harmful e.g. GcMAF – an unlicensed injection made from blood cells.

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14.  People with Autism can be Productive Members of the Society

People with autism are able to work and often have in-demand qualities and skills that help them succeed in the workplace. It has both cons. People on the spectrum find jobs easier when they can focus on their strengths. For example, an autistic person with good memory and a penchant for routine work is ideal for a career in acting, dancing, or engineering. Working independently is ideal for people on the spectrum who have problems socializing and processing stimuli. Writing, graphic design, and accounting are just a few of the many hustles that one with these challenges can involve in.

Example of Famous Person with Autism: Temple Grandin

15. A Spectrum that Unlocks Super Talents

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Savant syndrome is a rare condition in which people with developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD), have extraordinary abilities or skills in particular areas like memory, spatial ability, art, music or mathematics. Although not all of her ASD patients possess savant-like abilities, it is estimated that approximately 10% exhibit some degree of savantism. Although the precise causes of savantism are unknown, they are thought to be linked to differences in brain structure and function. It is essential to keep in mind that many people with ASD lack savant abilities and that savantism is not a universal trait. However, those who possess these abilities may offer a valuable and original means of self-expression and social contribution.

16. NO! Autism is not Caused by Bad Parenting

There’s no connection between bad parenting and autism. While the general cause of autism is unknown, factors like genetics may play a role in autism diagnosis. Positive reinforcement and good parenting improve the signs of autism, especially if a child gets diagnosed early. Early intervention and therapy improve signs like verbal difficulties and social anxiety. While horrifying events can change a child’s perception of the world, it is essential to remember that many people are born with autism. 

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17.  Did you Know….?

Autism spectrum disorder is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the United States. The prevalence of ASD has been increasing in recent years, with the CDC estimating that 1 in 54 children in the U.S. had ASD in 2020. This represents an increase from previous estimates, which were 1 in 150 children in 2000 and 1 in 68 children in 2010. ASD is more common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined. Notably, the increase in the prevalence of ASD is likely due to a combination of factors, including increased awareness and recognition of the disorder, changes in diagnostic criteria and improvements in diagnosis and screening.

18. Mutations on Chromosome 16 have been tied to Autism

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Mutations or genetic variations on chromosome 16 have been linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to research. A particular region of chromosome 16 known as 16p11.2 has been found to be linked to an increased risk of ASD. Numerous genes that play a role in brain development and function are located in the 16p11.2 region, and changes in these genes can have an impact on how brain circuits develop and become more connected. This, in turn, may exacerbate ASD symptoms like difficulty communicating with others and engaging in repetitive behaviours.

19. Vaccines DO NOT Cause Autism!

There has been a lot of debate regarding the possibility of a link between autism and vaccination. Multiple studies have since been conducted, involving large groups of people and spanning many years, all of which have found no causal relationship between vaccines and autism. The safety of vaccines has been extensively tested and proven, and they are essential for preventing serious and lethal diseases for both individuals and communities. The safety and efficiency of herd immunity are also compromised when vaccinations are withheld due to unfounded concerns about autism. When making decisions about vaccinations, it’s critical to rely on scientific evidence and the advice of medical professionals.

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20. Autism is Expensive to Families

The costs associated with caring for a child with autism can be significant and can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the resources available in the community. Some of the expenses that families of children with autism have to plan for include medical and therapy costs as the patient may require frequent doctor visits, medication, therapy, and other medical treatments. These costs can add up quickly, especially if the child has multiple medical issues. Also important is children with autism often require specialized education programs, such as those provided by private schools or therapists. These programs can be costly and may not be covered by insurance. Autism spectrum disorder costs a US family $60,000 a year on average. According to a study funded by Autism Speaks, the lifetime costs of autism average $1.4 million to $2.4 million.

21. Twins and Autism

There is a strong genetic component to autism, and studies have shown that identical twins are more likely to both have autism than fraternal twins. Identical twins share all of their genes, while fraternal twins share only about half of their genes on average. Therefore, if one identical twin has autism, the likelihood that the other twin will also have autism is much higher than for fraternal twins. If one identical twin has autism spectrum disorder, there is a 60-96% chance the other twin will have some form of ASD. Although fraternal twins have a lower chance of both having ASD, if one has an ASD the other has up to a 24% chance.

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22. Autism does not Translate to Low Intelligence

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A longitudinal study of children in Minnesota suggested that more than half of autistic people in the United States have an average or above-average intelligence quotient (IQ). In 2016, the proportion of autistic children in the U.S. with an average or higher IQ was 42% according to autism prevalence data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2020. From the Minnesota study of the 890 individuals for whom the records contained IQ data and who met the inclusive definition of autism, 59%  had an IQ score that was average or higher.

23.  ABA is a Common Autism Therapy

A treatment based on behaviourist principles applied behavioural analysis (ABA) therapy teaches new skills and behaviours to people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and other developmental disorders and reduces unwanted behaviours. In therapy, complex behaviours are broken down into smaller, easier-to-manage steps and positive behaviours are reinforced with praise and rewards. Additionally, treatment employs punishment and negative reinforcement to discourage undesirable behaviour. People with ASD have shown improvement in their skills and behaviour with ABA therapy, but it does not cure the disorder.

24.  Some People with ASD may need Lifelong Support

Image by MissLunaRose from Wikimedia

Some people with autism may require lifelong care due to the severity of their symptoms or other co-occurring conditions, but many people with autism are able to live independently with varying degrees of support. The level of care required for each person with autism will vary based on their individual requirements and capabilities. However, it is essential to provide those who require care for the rest of their lives with the assistance they need to live safe, content and satisfying lives.

25.  Seizures as a Co-Disorder of Autism

Many individuals with ASD also experience co-occurring medical conditions, including seizures. Seizures, also known as epileptic seizures, occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Research suggests that individuals with ASD have a higher prevalence of epilepsy or seizure disorders compared to the general population. Studies have estimated that up to 30% of individuals with ASD may have epilepsy or a seizure disorder, which is significantly higher than the estimated 1-2% prevalence in the general population.

26.  Hyperlexia Usually Manifests with Autism

Hyperlexia commonly accompanies autism spectrum disorder. It is a rare condition characterized by a child’s ability to read at an advanced level before they are able to speak or understand spoken language. While some children with hyperlexia may also have autism, the two conditions are distinct and not always linked. Some people with autism have excellent reading abilities, while others may struggle with language and communication skills. Some children with hyperlexia may have difficulty with social interactions, just like children with autism. Similarly, some children with autism may have exceptional reading skills, like children with hyperlexia.

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27.  There are Special Schools for ASD

Some children with autism may benefit from a specialized school environment, such as a school that focuses on teaching social skills. These schools may be called “autism schools” or “special education schools” and are designed to provide an environment that is supportive of individuals with ASD. Special schools for ASD may employ teachers and staff who have training and experience in working with individuals with autism. They may also use specialized teaching methods and therapies, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and social skills training, to help students with ASD develop the skills they need to succeed academically and socially. In addition to academic instruction, special schools for ASD may offer a range of services and supports, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counselling. Not all individuals with autism require a special school environment, and many are able to succeed in mainstream schools with appropriate support.

28.  The World is better because of some Famous People with Autism Spectrum

A number of famous people have been diagnosed with ASD over the years and have gone on to do great things in their fields. American animal behaviourist and autism advocate Temple Grandin is one of the most well-known people with autism. Grandin went on to earn a Ph.D. in animal science and became a pioneer in enhancing livestock welfare, despite her early struggles with social interactions and communication. Another is that Satoshi Tajiri is responsible for the popular “Pokémon” video game series. Tajiri has been told that he has Asperger’s syndrome and that the condition has helped him be more creative and better able to focus on the small things

29. Meltdowns and Shutdowns

Image by Amy from Pixabay

Despite the fact that they are the result of the individual’s neurological differences, meltdowns and shutdowns are frequently mistaken for intentional or attention-seeking behaviours. Meltdowns can be sparked by a variety of stimuli, including bright lights, loud noises, social stressors, and shifts in routine. The individual may become overwhelmed, anxious, and agitated during a meltdown, resulting in intense emotional outbursts like crying, screams, or physical outbursts. Both the person with autism and those around them may experience distress as a result of these episodes. On the other hand, shutdowns are characterized by a lack of social interaction and communication. This can occur when an autistic person becomes unable to process information or interact with others due to an overload of sensory or emotional input. They might stop responding, appear disengaged, or completely avoid social situations.

30. Autism is one of the most under-funded developmental disorders

Research indicates that funding for autism research and services is frequently insufficient, despite the high prevalence of the condition. The United States Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) published a report in stating that federal funding for autism research and services is only a small portion of the estimated over $1o billion required annually to effectively address the requirements of people who have autism. In addition, despite the fact that autism has a comparable or greater impact on society, the IACC report notes that research into the disorder receives significantly less funding than research into cancer, heart disease, and HIV/AIDS.

31. There is a Global Autism Awareness Day

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Autism Awareness Day was first observed in 2008 after being approved by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2007. Autism Awareness Day is an annual event held on April 2nd. The day is dedicated to raising awareness for autism. The purpose of this event is to promote understanding and acceptance of people with autism and to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. The day is part of a larger effort to promote the rights of people with disabilities and promote social inclusion and accessibility. During this day, many organizations and communities around the world host events and activities to promote awareness and acceptance of autism.

32. Pets to the Rescue

A service dog encourages outward expression from a young boy with autism. Image by Zipster969 from Wikimedia

Research shows that dogs improve the quality of life for children with autism, promote independence and safety, and reduce aggressive behaviour. Dogs can help children with autism develop social skills and participate in social interactions. This is because dogs are an object of common interest and potential conversation starters. Furthermore, dogs can provide companionship for children with autism and reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Children with autism feel more comfortable and secure with dogs and are more likely to engage in physical activity during play with pets.

33.  The Tragedy of Missed Diagnosis

Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for individuals with autism to receive appropriate support and treatment to reach their full potential. One of the tragic consequences of missed diagnosis is that individuals with autism may not receive the early intervention and support they need to develop critical skills. Another tragic consequence of missed diagnosis is that individuals with autism may be misdiagnosed or misunderstood, which can lead to inappropriate treatment and support. For example, if an individual with autism is misdiagnosed with a behavioural disorder, they may be prescribed medications or interventions that are not effective or even harmful. The worst-case scenario is when individuals with ASD are not diagnosed till adulthood.

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34. Anxiety and Depression are Common in Children on the Spectrum

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Due to difficulties with social interaction and communication, children with autism frequently experience high levels of anxiety. They might have trouble adapting to shifts in routine or unforeseen occurrences, which can also make them feel anxious. Depression is also common in children with autism, and it can be caused by a number of things, such as difficulty understanding and processing emotions, social isolation, and difficulties communicating. Children with autism must be given top priority for their mental health and well-being, and they must be given the support and resources they need to effectively manage anxiety and depression.

35. Families Dealing With Autism Need Help and Support

It can be hard to ask for help, especially if you don’t understand what autism is. It is essential to inform friends and family that having an autistic child is difficult. More likewise difficult for families to deal with the everyday requests of really focusing on youngsters and grown-ups with ASD. For those diagnosed with autism and their families, even high-functioning autism can be challenging. Everyday life can be overwhelming for families with severe autism. Friends, extended family and service providers’ positive attitudes and non-judgmental support can be of great assistance to families.

In summary, millions of people around the world are affected by the complex and multifaceted condition known as autism. Many aspects of autism continue to intrigue researchers, clinicians, and advocates, from the origins of the brain to its effects on individuals and their families. This 35 things to know about autism article provides an introduction for parents, caregivers, teachers, or just people curious about autism to understand the disease and its entire spectrum.