The term autism spectrum disorders refers to a set of pervasive neurodevelopmental disorders that involve problems in the areas of language, communication and social interaction. People affected by it typically follow rigid and stereotyped behavioral patterns, their interests are limited to specific topics and their activities are often tied to an extremely repetitive routine.
Symptoms can appear as early as the first two years of life, although milder forms of autism can be diagnosed even at school age. Medical examinations, observations and reports from parents represent the first step toward diagnosis, then confirmed through clinical tests. Symptoms and their severity can manifest very differently from person to person, so specific needs and the degree of support required are also variable.
THE DATA
According to the National Observatory for the monitoring of autism spectrum disorders, in Italy 1 in 77 children aged between 7 and 9 years has an autism spectrum disorder. A prevalence in males has also been detected, where the incidence is 4.4 times higher compared to females.
This is important data that makes us understand how necessary it is to guarantee families the right and proper support not only in terms of healthcare, but also educational and social services. Early diagnosis and the guarantee of all these resources are essential to enable children to grow, as much as possible, toward the development of a certain autonomy and integration into society. The lack of these elements can in fact lead to the development of severe disability.
THE CAUSES
The causes to which autism can be attributed are still mostly unknown, also because the plurality of symptoms means that each subject is almost a case in itself. It is certain that there is a hereditary component, while there don't appear to be correlations with influences from external factors after birth.
It is believed that the disorders derive from an alteration in the development of the central nervous system and, in particular, from anomalies in neurons and their connections. Scientific research has therefore focused over the years on genetic factors and the study of the brain.
Information and awareness represent the first steps to protect, guarantee rights and ensure the best possible future for people affected by autism spectrum disorders. Let's not remain indifferent!
