The term 'autism spectrum disorders' (more commonly referred to as 'autism') is an umbrella description which includes:
Autistic disorder (sometimes called infantile autism or childhood autism)
Asperger's disorder
Atypical autism
Autism spectrum disorders are lifelong disabilities that affect the way a person communicates and relates to other people and the world around them. People affected by autism typically display major impairments in three areas:
Social interaction
Communication
Behaviour (restricted interests and repetitive behaviours)
These are commonly referred to as the Triad of Impairments.
Many people with an autism spectrum disorder also have sensory sensitivities, ie over- or under-sensitivity to sight, touch, taste, smell, sound, temperature pr pain. As a result of their impairments, people with autism spectrum disorders often experience overwhelming anxiety, frustration and confusion when faced with the demands of everyday life.
The majority of people with an autistic disorder also have an intellectual disability, whereas those with Asperger's disorder are typically of average or above average intelligence, may have relatively intact communication skills and have specific learning disabilities.
Although autism spectrum disorders are almost always present at birth, they often do not become evident until the age of 2 or 3 (or 5 or 6 in the case of Asperger's disorder).
Recent international research (Fombonne & Chakrabarti 2005)
now suggests that the best estimate for the prevalence of all
autism spectrum disorders is 60 per 10,000 population*. Aspect
estimates that there are 120,000 people with autism spectrum
disorders (ASDs) living in Australia. This means there are
30,000 children and young people with ASDs in Australia. In
New South Wales alone it is estimated that there are 9,000 children
and young people with ASDs. Many of those affected by ASDs will
need significant assistance for most of their lives.
Studies suggest that autism spectrum disorders are about four times more prevalent in boys than in girls.
* where ASD is defined strictly according to DSM-IV and ICD criteria, i.e. criteria met for autistic disorder, Asperger's disorder or atypical autism. Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) uses the statement "Autism affects one in 100 Australians" as an indicator of the impact of autism on all family members.
Behavioural indicators
Impaired communication e.g. difficulties in interpreting and using gestures
Flat facial expression and vocal tone
Repetition of heard phrases and words
Impaired comprehension
Severely impaired social skills such as difficulties maintaining eye contact, and initiating and sustaining conversation
Very specific and unusual preoccupations and attachments
Preference for routines
What causes autism spectrum disorders?
There is no single known cause, although recent research has identified strong evidence of a genetic factor for many people. For some individuals, however, there may be evidence of damage or developmental abnormalities in the brain occurring before, during or soon after birth.
Because varying factors are considered to contribute to autism spectrum disorders, people display varying degrees of impairment.
Is there a cure for autism?
As yet there is no known cure for autism, but early intervention, specialised education and structured support can help develop a person's skills and minimise behaviour problems and enable each person, whatever their level of disability, to achieve as great a degree of independence as possible.
The importance of early diagnosis
Experience has shown that the earlier a child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder can be enrolled in an early intervention program, the better his or her outcomes.
A combination of special education, speech therapy, occupational therapy and behavioural interventions has proved to be successful in helping people with an autism spectrum disorder. Early diagnosis and intervention is also essential to ensure families and carers have access to appropriate services and professional support.
What to do if you suspect autism is present
It is important you refer the child for a specialist diagnostic assessment as soon as possible following discussion with your GP, your child's paediatrician or local community health centre professionals. If you cannot find a local expert, contact Autism Spectrum Australia who will be able to help you with a referral to your nearest source of expertise.
