Autism: the facts

Tips to identify a child with autism and how to save lives.

Powered by automated translation

What is autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder, commonly known as autism, is a brain development disorder that affects social interaction and communication skills of a child’s life. Early signs of autism appear during infancy and early childhood.

What causes Autism?

Research shows that there are several types of autism and that there is no definite cause. It is thought that the disability is a result of abnormalities in the brain structure.

How do you know if your child has autism?

Social interaction, communicating verbally and non-verbally and behavioural dysfunction are the three main areas that impact autistic children. Sometimes children develop normally before they begin to lose social or language skills. Usually autistic children withdraw from their surroundings. Others immerse themselves in unusual behaviours such as lining up toys, a common symptom.

How many autism cases are there in the UAE?

The precise number of autism cases is not known. However, public awareness has increased in recent years and there is more early screening.

How can you help a child with autism?

Early detection is the best way to help your child.

* Asmaa Al Hameli