Many people with autism can achieve high levels of skills

Many people with autism can achieve high levels of skills

AN ESTIMATED 535,000 people have autism in the UK, with boys more likely to develop the condition than girls. Doctors do not know what causes autism ?but it is highly likely that there is a genetic reason?, says pediatric consultant at Scott Hospital in Plymouth, Dr Paul Gorham. He says people with autism quite often have relatives with related conditions like Asperger?s Syndrome. ?Autism is not apparent at birth although children can be born with a genetic predisposition to autism,? continued Dr Gorham. The evidence that there is a link between autism and the MMR vaccination has been totally discredited following an investigation by the Medical Health Council. ?Children appear to develop normally and then regress somewhere between the ages of one and two. The regression is in language. A child can suddenly withdraw socially and cease to communicate or give eye contact.? The earlier a diagnosis is made, the better the chances are of a person receiving appropriate help and support although 40% of all children wait more than three years for a clear diagnosis. Obsessions, repetitive behaviours and routines are all key features of autism. Experts believe particular subjects or objects may provide structure, order and predictability and help individuals cope with change. There is no medical cure for autism but there is a whole variety of treatment programmes, mostly educational and behavioural therapies. Because autism is a ?spectrum? disorder it affects different people in different ways. It is therefore difficult to generalise about how a person with autism will develop over time, says the National Autistic Society. An intervention ? where it?s considered necessary ? which works with one individual may not be appropriate or effective with another. The society says that contrary to what many people imagine, some autistic children and adults can demonstrate a variety of emotions, some go on to hold down responsible jobs, have relationships with others, marry and raise children. Many people with autism have an ability to focus on detail and may have the good powers of concentration on a single activity provided it is of interest to them. This means they can often achieve a very high level of skills in a particular area. Children with autism can be especially good at learning facts, skills and talents ? they tend to be very honest and if communication skills develop, will report things very accurately and openly. For more information about autism log onto the National Autistic Society website at http://www.nas.org.uk">www.nas.org.uk or contact the helpline 0845 070 4004 (10am to 4pm Monday to Friday.)