Today is World Autism Awareness Day, and DASHA® is helping to spread the word on Autism spectrum disorder, as we also celebrate Autism Awareness Month throughout the rest of this month. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. ASD can also be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances.
Most cases of autism appear to be caused by a combination of autism risk genes and environmental factors influencing early brain development. The most obvious signs of autism and symptoms of autism tend to emerge between 2 and 3 years of age and include the following:
- No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter;
- No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions by nine months;
- No babbling by 12 months;
- No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months;
- No words by 16 months;
- No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months;
- Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age.
The CDC reports that 1 in 88 children are on the autism spectrum, with an estimated 1 out of 54 boys and 1 in 252 girls being diagnosed, affecting over two million in the U.S. and tens of millions of people worldwide. This is a dramatic increase within the past 40 years. Many of those on the autism spectrum have exceptional abilities in visual skills, music and academic skills. About 40 percent have average to above average intellectual abilities.
The Autism Society exists to improve the lives of all affected by autism. To learn more about autism, to access valuable resources for those with autism, or to participate in local events surrounding World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness Month, visit the Autism Society at www.autism-society.org.
DASHA® wellness & spa is a luxury lifestyle brand and New York City-based wellness center created to offer a truly holistic approach to wellness. To learn more, visit dashawellness.com.
