You might have autism

Autism affects the development of the nervous system during infancy and affects one's ability to function independently. It is believed to have a genetic cause since having an older brother with autism places a child at a higher chance of having autism too. Males are more frequently affected by autism. It is estimated that autism and autism-like disorders may be present in one per cent of the population. In the last three decades, interest in this condition has increased, and the diagnosis is now made in adults as well as children.

Signs of autism

People with autism demonstrate difficulties in communication, social interaction, and have repetitive, stereotyped behaviours. Often, parents recognise very early that their child is different, but by age two, they will report an absence of speech or the use of excessively repetitive language. The intonation and quality of the speech also seem odd. It is difficult to hold a two-way conversation with these people.

Poor social interaction

Social interactions are problematic. People with autism make limited eye contact, lack emotional reciprocity, and find making friends difficult. Non-verbal communication such as gestures and facial expressions are restricted or repetitive. These include hand-flapping and finger-flicking. These males insist on following fixed routines and tend to be obsessed with specific topics or objects.

Diagnosis and care

The diagnosis of autism is conducted by trained personnel using interviews and observation of the affected individuals. Often, parents will raise concerns with their family doctors, paediatricians or early-childhood practitioners. These children will then be referred to a paediatrician who specialises in childhood disabilities. They require the intervention of a speech therapist, an educational psychologist, and possibly a psychiatrist to make the diagnosis.

Testing

Some children will require chromosome and DNA testing. An electroencephalogram (EEG) to analyse the brain waves may also be significant. The EEGs may be used in children under one year, who also have family members with autism, in an attempt to identify the condition at an early age.

Early identification

The early identification of children at risk for autism provides important benefits. These include earlier access to information on diagnosis and interventions; support for parents; and earlier identification, of medical, developmental and psychiatric conditions which are associated with autism. The aim is to identify autism as soon as possible, preferably before age two, in order to achieve better functioning and cognitive ability.

Dr Pauline Williams-Green is a family physician and past president of the Caribbean College of Family Physicians; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.

People with autism demonstrate difficulties in communication, social interaction and have repetitive, stereotyped behaviours.