Autism Awareness Month

April is World Autism Awareness Month. Autism-friendly events and educational activities take place all month to increase understanding and acceptance and foster worldwide support.

Autism describes a wide range of complex brain development disorders that can strike children at an early age. The spectrum of autism disorders includes Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and pervasive developmental disorders. Those diagnosed with ASD are also assessed for levels of intellectual disability and language impairment. But people with ASD can also excel in visual skills, music, math and art. Additionally, autism may affect an individual’s physical health, triggering digestive issues and problems sleeping. The developmental disorders occur in every racial and ethnic group and across all socioeconomic levels. Autism affects both sexes, but boys are more likely than girls to develop ASD.