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. Read more: Cerebral Haemorrhage: Signs, Reasons, Treatment, and Prevention 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. Read more: Why are Suicide Rates Higher Among Men?  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. 

Saima Wazed, one of the candidates for the post of World Health Organization’s (WHO) regional director for South-east Asia, has expressed optimism about her chances, referring to a lot of “positive feedback.” Saima Wazed, who has worked in the field of autism, speaking to Indian English language news channel WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, said, “If elected, my real goal is to ensure that mental health, which has been sorely neglected and is a huge challenge, is incorporated within the entire health system.” WHO's South-east Asia office is one of the six key regional units and works with 11 member states. Asked about her political links, given she is the daughter of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Saima Wazed said, “I have always known who I am, and I know that there will always be a reminder of that, but I was also raised as a refugee, I was also raised by a mother who had lost everything overnight.” Read: Resolving Palestine crisis depends on ‘united efforts’ by Muslim Ummah: PM “When you're the daughter of somebody very, very important and very successful, everybody assumes that things are much easier for you, but you don't get to be successful unless you work hard,” Saima Wazed said. The names of the candidates for the election of the next regional director for WHO SEARO were sent by WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to the relevant member states on August 18, 2023. The candidates are Saima Wazed Putul, nominated by Bangladesh, and Dr Shambhu Prasad Acharya, nominated by Nepal. The Regional Committee of WHO South-east Asia  will vote to nominate the next regional director in a closed meeting during its seventy-sixth session from October 30 to November 2, in New Delhi, India. Read:Stop Israel-Palestine war, save women and children: PM Hasina urges world leaders The nomination will then be submitted for appointment by the 154th session of the WHO Executive Board, which takes place from January 22 to 27, 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland. The newly appointed regional director will take office on February 1, 2024 for a five-year term and be eligible for reappointment once.

South Korea will continue its support for the Institute of Paediatric Neurodisorder and Autism (IPNA) IPNA to enhance autism-related treatment facilities in Bangladesh and deepen bilateral ties, Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Country Director Young-Ah Doh said Sunday. She was addressing the seminar "Enhancement of Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurodevelopmental Disabilities for Children in Bangladesh," held at the IPNA, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), in Dhaka. Under the same title, KOICA supported an 11-day long online fellowship programme, comprising 20 IPNA officials, for the second year in a row. The intensive training was conducted by the Inje University of South Korea to share the country's experience in neurodevelopmental disorders and improve the integrated diagnostic capacity building of the IPNA. A detailed presentation on the lessons learnt and best action plans were delivered by the IPNA officials. They focused on topics such as improving the ability to diagnose and treat neurodevelopmental disorders, counselling and psychotherapy for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families; therapeutic communication for psychotherapists, occupational therapy practice framework, sensory interaction, education and counselling practice. Young-Ah Doh hoped that the training would strengthen the base for treating children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr Md Sharfuddin Ahmed, vice-chancellor of the BSMMU, thanked KOICA for its close partnership with IPNA since 2012.  

Awareness has been raised regarding Autism by involving the highest policy making level of the state, said Saima Wazed Hossain, a member of the World Health Organization's 25-member Expert Advisory Panel on mental health. She made the observation during a 90-minute online discussion event, titled 'Pracheer Periye: Saima Wazed's Conversation with Stephen Shore on his Autobiography and Autism' on Sunday organized by Shuchona Foundation in collaboration with the Centre for Research & Information (CRI). During the virtual meeting, 'Pracheer Periye' Bengali edition of acclaimed autism writer and US Professor Dr. Stephan Mark Shore’s book 'Beyond the Wall' was unveiled. He reflected on his experiences with autism during the event. The book was translated under the initiative of the Suchona Foundation. Also read: 'Pracheer Periye': Saima Wazed's conversation with Stephen Shore Saima Wazed, also the daughter of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, remarked that the biggest achievement Bangladesh had made in handling the autism issue is that the country's highest policy making level, especially the PM and other ministers getting involved in raising awareness about autism. “There is also much progress in transitioning out of the stigma that people, in general, had about autism in the past”, she said. “We have many limitations and those limitations have emerged as a kind of strength, which is also a big achievement in the autism awareness movement,” she added. Expressing her optimism about the change in people's attitude towards autism, she said, "In Bangladesh, one of the core things we have achieved is national awareness and awakening to the fact that those on the autism spectrum are supposed to be part and parcel of society. There is the belief system that there should be more acceptance, there should be more assistance and there should be more opportunities." Referring to the initiatives undertaken by the government, she said, "We have a strategic plan that's not just limited to one sector, not just the education sector or health sector, but across 20 different ministries and divisions. The government has adopted the multi-sectoral approach." Having accomplished her higher education in psychology and mental health in the US, Saima Wazed set off on raising awareness about children with autism in Bangladesh by establishing the voluntary organization Suchona Foundation. She is also the president of the National Advisory Committee on Autism in Bangladesh. Also read: Autism: Saima shares Bangladesh's good practices with global community Dr. Stephen Shore was diagnosed with “atypical development with strong autistic tendencies” and nonverbal at the age of four. He completed his doctorate in special education at Boston University. Stephen now works as a clinical assistant professor at the Ruth S. Ammon School of Education at Adelphi University, teaching courses in special education and autism as part of his work on empowering people on the autism spectrum to develop their capacities to the fullest. Owing to his experience of cross-country tours, he shared his observation during the event, talking about striking similarities in the behaviors of children with autism across the world. He, however, also referred to the uniqueness of every such child, stressing the need for assistance to help them thrive through skills. Honorable Speaker of the National Parliament of Bangladesh, Dr. Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, also spoke at the meeting, saying that a workshop on Neurodevelopment Disorder in 2015 at the national parliament. Saima Wazed presented the keynote at the workshop. She appreciated an array of initiatives undertaken by the Suchona Foundation under the leadership of Saima for people with special needs. She also showered her praise on Saima for pioneering the awareness-raising campaign on ASD or Autism Spectrum Disorder in Bangladesh.

Shuchona Foundation will be launching "Pracheer Periye" on April 24 during an online event organised in collaboration with Centre for Research and Information (CRI). The Foundation undertook the initiative to translate and publish Beyond the Wall, an autobiography by a renowned self-advocate, Dr. Stephen Mark Shore in Bangla titled Pracheer Periye. The online event titled “Pracheer Periye: Saima Wazed's Conversation with Stephen Shore on his Autobiography and Autism” will be attended by Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury as chief guest. Dr. Shore and Saima Wazed, chairperson of Shuchona Foundation will be part of a panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Helal Uddin Ahmed, Associate Professor of Child Adolescent and Family Psychiatry in National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Also read: Bangabandhu believed in peace, dialogue, social harmony: Saima Other guest speakers will be Jane Pearce, Country Director of World Food Programme Bangladesh, Adiba Ibnat Poshla who will share her experience as a self-advocate in navigating life with ASD, and Niger Rahman as one of the book reviewers of Pracheer Periye. Acknowledging that no two persons on the spectrum are the same, the book is helpful and gives an understanding of the life of a person with ASD, said a press release on Thursday. The author of the original book, Dr. Shore was diagnosed with autism as a child. His autobiographical account gives a rare, detailed, and warm insight into the life of someone with Asperger Syndrome. Currently, Dr. Shore is an Assistant Professor of Special Education at Adelphi University in the United States. Shuchona Foundation is publishing Pracheer Periye with the hope that it will help further the understanding towards ASD among Bangla readers at home and abroad. Also read: Autism: Saima shares Bangladesh's good practices with global community Shuchona Foundation’s Chairperson Saima Wazed is a Licensed School Psychologist, an Advisor to the Director-General of WHO on Mental Health and Autism, and CVF’s Thematic Ambassador for Vulnerability. Currently, she is an Instructor and Clinic Supervisor at Adrian Dominican School of Education (ADSOE), Barry University, USA. Pracheer Periye can be found in rokomari.com after the launch.   END/UNB/MK/F 1940  

Foreign Minister  AK Abdul Momen has reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to ensuring that over 75 million autistic people in the world can make the most of their talents and participate fully in the societies. Momen was delivering his opening remarks at a virtual event on World Autism Awareness Day 2022 organized by the Permanent Missions of Bangladesh and the State of Qatar to the United Nations in New York, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and Autism Speaks on Thursday.  Also read:No need for volunteers from Bangladesh to join Russian special military operation: Embassy He shared good practices from Bangladesh in supporting children with autism and their families during the pandemic, including through targeted support measures and use of ICTs.  In this context, he said during Covid-19, the children with autism and their families suffered disproportionately due to disruptions in their education and therapeutic services.  However, the existing social support system, strong ICT infrastructure and robust community-based health services in Bangladesh helped many families cope up with the challenges. Referring to the increased awareness on autism in Bangladesh, the foreign minister said various stakeholders, ministries and departments have worked together to mitigate the challenges and stigma faced by the persons with autism. He mentioned various initiatives undertaken by the current government such as ‘Rights and Protection of Persons with Disabilities Act 2013’ and ‘Neuro-development Trust Act 2013’, etc.  “Our government has been promoting a ‘culture of innovation’ to take advantage of the assistive tools and technologies. Digital Bangladesh initiative has opened a new era in extending disability inclusive e-service, webs and other ICT-based services”, the Foreign Minister  added.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday put emphasis on brining children with special needs and autism into the mainstream of the society giving them opportunity to flourish their hidden talents. “I believe we will be able to incorporate persons with autism syndrome in the mainstream of the national life with the united efforts of all including our (government's) diversified ones, ” she said. She said this while addressing the 15th World Autism Awareness Day 2022 at Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC) organised by the Social Welfare Ministry. She joined the programme virtually from her official residence Ganobhaban. The theme of this year's day is: ‘Make such a world: explore the talents of people with autism.' The prime minister said that children with autism syndrome have various types of hidden talents. “That talents have to be flourished through giving them opportunities,” she said. READ: PM vows to uplift Bangladesh to a developed nation She urged all to take steps to help the special children so that they could flourish their hidden talents and contribute in the society. Regarding the demand of providing accommodation with training facilities for the persons with autism after demise their parents and guardians, Sheikh Hasina said that the government will do that. “Initially we will arrange accommodation with training facilities in the divisional headquarters while gradually in all districts through Neuro-Developmental Disability Protection Trust,” she said. She asked the Social Welfare Minister to take a project for this purpose. Hasina asked the affluent people to come forward for supplementing the government’s effort. “You have earned a lot, if you spend some of your money for this purpose it will be beneficial for the country,” she said. She said that the government is taking the country forward and that means all sections of the society will get its benefits. “All will get beautiful and developed life, we are running the state to this end,” she said. The Prime minister again urged all to remain safe from coronavirus as many places around the world are witnessing surge in infections. Social Welfare Minister Nuruzzaman Ahmed, State Minister Md. AshrafAli Khan Khasru and secretary Mahfuza Akhter spoke at the programme. Special child Isaba Hafiz Sushmi, on behalf of all special children with Autism syndrome, also spoke at the function. Later, the PM witnessed a colourful cultural function performed by physically challenged children. Social Welfare Minister Nuruzzaman, on behalf of the prime minister, distributed awards among successful children with autism and individuals and organisations working for the development of such children. A documentary on Autism was screened at the programme. Hasina also inaugurated Bolte Chai Apps and Smart Autism Barta Apps. In 2007, the United Nations declared April 2 as the World Autism Awareness Day, aiming to improve the quality of life of those with autism. In Bangladesh, different programmes have been taken to mark the day. Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status. The prime minister highlighted role of her daughter and chairperson of the Bangladesh National Advisory Committee for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Saima Wazed for creating awareness about autism. READ: Children with special needs are no burden, says PM The PM requested all including parents, guardians and others not to neglect the children with neuro-developmental disorder. She stressed the need for necessary training of parents, guardians and teachers so that they can properly behave and handle the autistic and physically challenged children. About the treatment, she mentioned that the children with such problems could recover gradually if their defects are identified at the primary stage. Mentioning some world famous personalities who had neuro-developmental disorder defects, she said that the children with such problems were found to be the most talented.

The World Autism Awareness Day will be observed in Bangladesh on Saturday with a pledge to bring the people suffering from autism and other physical disabilities into the mainstream of development. The theme of this year's day is: ‘Make such a world: explore the talents of people with autism’. The United Nations General Assembly declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the needs for enhanced initiatives of all to improve the lives of children and adults who suffer from the disorder. Read: Mild Autism: How to identify a child who is slightly autistic? The Ministry of Social Welfare will organise a programme at the capital’s Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in the morning on this occasion, according to a notification of the ministry issued on Thursday. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to join the programme virtually. This year, the day will be celebrated across the country through colorful programmes. Special supplements will be published in daily newspapers on this occasion. In honor of people with autism, the Ministry of Social Welfare and its affiliated departments, various institutions and important government buildings will be decorated with blue lights. In addition, road-branding, special memorabilia and leaflets have been printed to create awareness about autism. President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages wishing the overall success of all the programmes taken on the occasion of the 15th World Autism Awareness Day. In his message, Hamid said People with autism are not a burden to society and it is possible to turn them into skilled human resources through proper education, training, guidance and inspiration. “In order to build a prosperous ‘Sonar Bangla’, everyone has to work hard for the children and individuals who are at risk of Autism,” he said. Read: Autism: Saima shares Bangladesh's good practices with global community Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in her message, said the government has already provided many services both using technology and in-person for the welfare of people with autism such as forming the Neuro-Developmental Disability (NDD) Protection Trust. Two applications called 'Bolte Chai' and 'Autism Barta' have been created to provide assistance to autistic people, she added. The prime minister hoped that children and adolescents with autism will be grown up through the right care, education, training, and affection, so that they could be an asset to the family, society, and the state.

Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental dysfunction caused by the imbalance or mismanagement in the brain. Scientists believe that there are several causes of ASD that mostly begin before the age of 3 years which can last throughout the entire life. But most of us are unaware of mild autism and do not know how to point out a slightly autistic child. What is autism? When hearing the very term Autism or autism spectrum disorder, anyone's face turns pale behaviorally. It is a multiplex, life-long developmental disability that generally happens during childhood and can impact a person’s self-regulation, communication skills, and relationship. 1 in 4 children in the United States are affected with autism at present in accordance with the report of Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Various factors may influence the development of Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD) accompanied by several medical issues, mental disorders, and social challenges. Read How to Teach Growth Mindsets to Your Child? What is Mild Autism? The meaning and the definition of Mild Autism have been changing over the decades. It was known as infantile autism in 1980’, Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism in the 1990s, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from 2010 to till today. According to the severity of the disorder level, it is considered mild to extreme autism. Some teachers, therapists, and parents might use the word mild autism to explain the affected condition of a child. But the doctors are using an updated version manual of The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5). People with ASD experience social communication problems, hypersensitivity to smell, noise, touch, and other types of sensory experiences. Persons’ with mild symptoms need the least support as they can speak and move better than others. Read Childhood Cancer: Risk factors and causes of cancer in children Some Possible Signs and Symptoms of Mild Autism It is somehow difficult to identify and pre-determine the broad range of experience and behavioral patterns of kids with ASD. Variability from one step to the next step can make it tougher for caregivers to fully ensure the diagnosis.

New autism numbers released Thursday suggest more U.S. children are being diagnosed with the developmental condition and at younger ages. In an analysis of 2018 data from nearly a dozen states, researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that among 8-year-olds, 1 in 44 had been diagnosed with autism. That rate compares with 1 in 54 identified with autism in 2016. U.S. autism numbers have been on the rise for several years, but experts believe that reflects more awareness and wider availability of services to treat the condition rather than a true increase in the number of affected children. A separate CDC report released Thursday said that children were 50% more likely to be diagnosed with autism by age 4 in 2018 than in 2014. Also read: Researchers 'successfully test' drug for children with autism “There is some progress being made and the earlier kids get identified, the earlier they can access services that they might need to improve their developmental outcome,’’ said CDC researcher and co-author Kelly Shaw. Geraldine Dawson, director of Duke University’s Center for Autism and Brain Development, said the new estimate is similar to one found in research based on screening a large population of children rather than on those already diagnosed. As such, she said it may be closer to reflecting the true state of autism in U.S. children than earlier estimates. The CDC reports are based on data from counties and other communities in 11 states — some with more urban neighborhoods, where autism rates tend to be higher. The rates are estimates and don't necessarily reflect the entire U.S. situation, the authors said. Autism rates varied widely — from 1 in 26 in California, where services are plentiful, to 1 in 60 in Missouri. Also read: 50,500 children with autism in country: Zahid Maleque Overall, autism prevalence was similar across racial and ethnic lines, but rates were higher among Black children in two sites, Maryland and Minnesota. Until recently, U.S. data showed prevalence among white children was higher. At a third site, Utah, rates were higher among children from lower-income families than those from wealthier families, reversing a longstanding trend, said report co-author Amanda Bakian, a University of Utah researcher who oversees the CDC’s autism surveillance in that state. Bakian said that likely reflects more coverage for autism services by Medicaid and private health insurers.