Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of developmental conditions caused by differences in brain functioning. As a result of these changes, people with ASD have different ways of communicating, learning, and expressing emotions, setting them apart from society. And while many people may demonstrate similar signs, ASD is only diagnosed if the symptoms seriously affect the patient's life. Researching for your essay about autism, you'll learn one in 44 children in the US is now diagnosed with ASD. And almost a third of the people with ASD (30%) have a related intellectual disorder.

Modern medicine does not have a precise answer as to what causes ASD. However, researchers believe biology, genetics, and environment are the major contributing factors. For example, late pregnancy, infections during pregnancy, and difficult births are known to increase the risk of autism. At the same time, men are four times more likely to have ASD than women. And people with rare genetic disorders, such as fragile X syndrome, are also more likely to be diagnosed with ASD. Researchers have also found correlations between autism and mitochondrial diseases, though you shouldn't focus your autism essay around this issue as there's no direct relationship identified as of yet.

Unfortunately, no universal lab test or examination can conclusively diagnose autism. As ASD is a developmental disorder, it is usually diagnosed by medical professionals through several developmental examinations, starting at the age of nine months. Pediatricians evaluate a child's behavioral patterns at 9, 18, and 30 months, and ASD-specific screening is recommended at 18 and 24 months. Scheduled screening may identify signs of developmental anomalies, which should lead to a more in-depth ASD-specific screening. The sooner a child is diagnosed, the sooner they will receive the help and support necessary to ensure their long-term well-being.

Early signs of autism spectrum disorder can become noticeable when a child reaches nine months. Children with ASD cannot support eye contact and have trouble expressing emotions through facial expressions. The lack of gestures by 12 months, the lack of common interests by 15 months, or the failure to notice people are sad or hurt by 24 months are all signs of possible ASD. You can also dedicate your essay on autism to repetitive behavior, which is more pronounced in children with ASD. For instance, they get upset if anyone changes the order of their toys. They also tend to play with their toys the same way every time and have specific routines. In case their routines are disrupted, children with ASD get upset.