Abacoa & Alton Neighbors - April 2022

A p r i l 2 0 2 2 | Abacoa &Alton N E I G H B O R S 31 April is Autism Awareness Month Submitted by Caitlin Carlson, Marketing Specialist What is autism? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or more commonly known as autism, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. The term “spectrum” refers to the wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairment in functioning that can occur in people with autism. 1 in 44 children in the United States have been diagnosed with autism. Why are more people being diagnosed? • broadened criteria for diagnosis • better access to healthcare • increased awareness • extensive screening by pediatricians • environmental factors • improved diagnostic tools A single factor can’t be attributed to the increase in prevalence rates. The trend may reflect more awareness and wider availability of services, rather than a true increase in the number of children with autism. (Shaw KA, Maenner MJ, Bakian AV, et al., 2021) What are the risk factors? There are certain environmental and genetic factors associated with a higher risk of ASD due to the effect on brain development. There are genetic variations associated with a risk for ASD, and repeated or deleted sections of DNA and chromosomal abnormalities have also been implicated (Autism Speaks, 2017). Advanced paternal age (over 34), poor maternal physical and mental health, maternal prenatal medication use, maternal exposure to chemicals, preterm birth, complications during birth, low birth weight, and post birth infections are some environmental risk factors associated with ASD (Karimi, Kamali, Mousavi, & Karahmadi, 2016). Visit www.elsforautism.org to learn more. Els for Autism® is a non-profit organization founded in 2009 by World of Golf Hall of Famer and four-time major champion Ernie Els, his wife Liezl, and board chairman Marvin Shanken. Their vision is to influence autism acceptance worldwide by delivering and facilitating programs, education, and support that are leading examples of what can be available to people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). CHARITY SPOTLIGHT