To The Eagle:

More common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined, Autism is one of the fastest growing developmental disorders in the US. Generally appearing before the age of 3, Autism is a developmental disability which impairs the ability to communicate and interact.

Impacting the nervous system, the range and severity of Autism symptoms can vary widely. The most common symptoms include difficulty with communication, difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests, and repetitive behaviors.

It is common for those on the Autism spectrum to also experience allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, feeding disorders, sleeping disorders, sensory integration dysfunction, cognitive impairments and other medical disorders.

According to the latest research in 2020 conducted by the CDC, 1 in 54 children are affected by Autism. Although boys are nearly four times more likely than girls to be diagnosed, new research suggests that symptoms of Autism in males and females may differ, resulting in a delayed diagnosis of females.

The lives of children with Autism are significantly improved with early diagnosis and treatment. Individual treatment and learning styles, based upon that person’s unique needs, enables those on the spectrum to maximize their independence and help secure the highest quality of life.

Autism is a complex, lifelong developmental disability. It can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. As of 2014, more than 3.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder. For more information visit the Autism Society, Center for Disease Control or our local non-profit Wahkiakum Autism Awareness.

Sarah Lawrence

Puget Island