Edited by Cindy Zhang & Uday Lingampalli
Layout by Tiffany Fang
Art by Thejo Tattala
written By
Alda Nasywa
What is Autism? Autism is a brain development disorder that affects one’s ability to communicate and interact with other people. In addition, autism causes behavioral disorders and limits one’s interest. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a diverse group of conditions that are surmised to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. According to data released by the US Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, about 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, a 10% increase from 2014, when the estimate was 1 in 59. Boys are also 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls. Additionally, data released by the WHO in April 2020 indicates that one in 270 people have ASD worldwide. These estimates represent the mean and prevalence rates reported. “Autism is not a disability, it’s a different disability” – Stuart Duncan
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People with Autism often become the targets of bullying. This issue is so widespread that the United Nations has called on all member countries to take steps to raise awareness of autism in their communities. Held on November 1, 2007, the third UN general assembly established April 2 as World Autism Care Day, and was certified as an international holiday by the UN General Assembly on December 18, 2007. What you need to remember is that Autism is not a transmissible disease. Rather, it is a condition treated not by medicine, but therapy. Why is Autism Awareness day so important? On top of learning about autism, everyone should take real action to create a more equitable environment. The main way that is arguably a very common is to minimize triggers. Everyone with Autism is different, and sensory & routine differences, anxiety, and commucation difficulties are common triggers. Let’s turn April 2nd into a day not just for awareness, but a day on which to take real action too.
