There are so many mysteries about autism people are anxious to solve. A new study conducted by the University of Connecticut claims that some children may outgrow the spectrum disorder with age. Researchers not only found that the symptoms of many children improved, but some of the study participants no longer showed any signs of the disorder.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in 88 kids have autism. This includes all variations of the spectrum, as well as Asperger Syndrome. Signs of autism usually occur within the first three years of life, and may include:
- lack of eye contact
- delayed speech
- social complications
- obsessions with routine
The best hope for patients with autism is early intervention. Treatments can vary, but may include speech therapy, behavioral techniques and medications. Given the effectiveness of modern treatment techniques, many autistic children learn how to cope better socially, as well as in a school environment. However, there is no concrete proof that autism may be cured, which the National Institutes of Health states is a life-long condition. The University of Connecticut study is just one step closer to helping researchers understand the disorder better, but more studies of this kind are certainly in order.
Due to the resources available, there is a lot of emphasis on treatment in young children. Many people tend to forget that this is not a new disorder, and that there are millions of adults suffering today. The disorder is also more common among males, but this certainly doesn't exclude women from having autism spectrum disorder. If you or a loved one suspects autism, there are resources to help cope and lead a better quality of life. Visit autismspeaks.org for a complete list of adult services.
Also, the annual Southwest Florida Annual Walk for Autism is scheduled for October 15, 2013. You may sign up individually or build a team at:
http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1052632.
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