International Day
What is Autism spectrum disorder? Why is Autism Awareness Important?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects individuals in various ways. Understanding autism and raising awareness about it is crucial to creating a more inclusive and supportive society.
World Autism Awareness Day, observed on April 2, serves as a reminder of understanding and supporting individuals with autism. Let's delve deeper into the intricacies of autism and why awareness about it is important.
What is Autism?
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or autism spectrum condition (ASC), is a neurodevelopmental variation in brain functioning, influencing communication, interaction, and learning patterns. People with autism may have difficulty understanding social cues, expressing themselves verbally or nonverbally, and engaging in repetitive behaviours or interests.
Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it affects each individual differently, ranging from mild to severe. It is crucial to understand that autism is not a sickness; it is a lifelong condition present from birth. Various therapies are available to assist individuals in coping with challenges and leading fulfilling lives.
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Signs of Autism
Signs of autism can vary widely among individuals, but common signs include challenges in social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviours. Specific signs may include:
- Avoidance of eye contact - Lack of interest in pointed-out objects- Delayed language development compared to peers- Diminished engagement with others- Preference for objects over people- Difficulty participating in interactive games- Heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli- Resistance to changes in routine- Repetitive and restricted use of toys- Echoing of words or phrases- Repetitive movements.
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Causes of Autism
The rising rate of autism suggests a complex interplay of factors, with genetics playing a significant role. Scientists have identified rare gene mutations and common genetic variations linked to autism. Emerging research focuses on the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental influences.
For instance, maternal exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy could contribute to genetic mutations associated with autism. The disorder's multifaceted nature highlights the need for further investigation.
"Let’s proudly declare: We are all feminists"
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on governments to increase funding by 50 per cent to women’s rights organizations and movements by 2026.
He said violence against women and girls is the most pervasive human rights violation in the world.
"Let’s take a stand and raise our voices in support of women’s rights. Let’s proudly declare: We are all feminists," he said in a message marking the International Day for the elimination of violence against women.
Every 11 minutes, a woman or girl is killed by an intimate partner or family member — and we know that other stresses, from the COVID-19 pandemic to economic turmoil, inevitably lead to even more physical and verbal abuse, Guterres said.
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Women and girls also face rampant online violence, from misogynistic hate speech, to sexual harassment, image abuse and grooming by predators, he said.
"This discrimination, violence and abuse targeting half of humanity comes at a steep cost. It limits women’s and girls’ participation in all walks of life, denies their basic rights and freedoms, and blocks the equal economic recovery and sustainable growth our world needs," said the UN chief.
Now is the time for transformative action that ends violence against women and girls, he said.
This means governments designing, funding and implementing national action plans to tackle this scourge, Guterres said.
"It means involving grassroots and civil society groups at every stage of decision-making. It means ensuring that laws are implemented and respected, so survivors see their rights to justice and support upheld.
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It means supporting public campaigns that challenge patriarchal norms and reject misogyny and violence," said the UN chief.
"And as this year’s theme — “UNITE: Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls” — reminds us, it means standing with activists around the world who are calling for change and supporting survivors of violence," he said.