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Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day, an internationally recognized day that encourages Member States of the UN, organisations, support groups and individuals to work towards raising awareness about autism. April is marked as World Autism Awareness Month and is now termed as Autism Acceptance Month in some parts of the world to show support and acceptance to those living with autism.

As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), about one in a hundred children globally have autism¹ i.e. it is prevalent in about 1%. At least 400 new cases are diagnosed in Singapore each year² and it is estimated that 1 in 150 children in Singapore is affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

It is important for us as a society to understand autism better so that we can become a more inclusive society. This article attempts to give an overview of ASD, how it impacts us and what we can do.

What is ASD?

ASD is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. It is called a “spectrum” disorder as autism symptoms and their severity vary from person to person.

Individuals with ASD often struggle with social communication and interaction with others; they might display repetitive behaviour, interests or routines; and have difficulty adjusting to changes in routine, their surroundings and new people.

At what age is autism diagnosed?

Autism is diagnosed on the basis of a child’s development and behaviour. It is possible to identify certain characteristics even at 18 months of age but a reliable diagnosis mostly happens only by the age of two or later in childhood³.

It is necessary to look for the early symptoms for timely diagnosis of ASD. Early detection and intervention can help kids with autism to get the right care and support so that they lead a fulfilling life.

What is the impact of autism on a child’s life?

As autism is a developmental condition, it can have a huge impact on a child’s life. It can feel like a sensory overload and cause stress.

On the personal front, they might have difficulty in learning or performing daily tasks ideally suited for their age. These could include brushing teeth, taking a shower, getting dressed, speaking (in some cases), learning, and understanding things.

As they grow on to become teenagers and young adults, children with ASD may have difficulty communicating with other kids and adults, making and maintaining friendships, and understanding several things or instructions at school.

People with autism may have specific health-care needs related to autism or other co-occurring or chronic noncommunicable conditions due to their diet preferences, lack of physical exercise, and being at a greater risk of injury and abuse¹.

Life ahead

It may or may not be possible for a child with ASD to live independently as an adult as each person with autism has different symptoms and faces different challenges. While some people with autism might have barely noticeable symptoms, a few may be able to lead independent lives and pursue a career, others might have such severe symptoms that their daily life can become very dependent and challenging.

Concerned if your child has autism?

If you are concerned about your child’s behaviour, communication or social skills or involvement in paying, or if your child displays one or more signs of autism, meet a specialised healthcare professional at the earliest to avoid any delay in diagnosis and necessary care.

References and Resources

¹ Autism

² Autism Spectrum Disorder – ASD – (Children)

³ Screening and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Doing our bit – Releasing Cord Blood for KKH Autism Trial

Worldwide, many experienced researchers and medical centres are conducting studies and trials to determine if cord blood stem cells can help people with autism. In July 2021, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), Singapore, ran a first-of-its-kind clinical trial in Singapore for the treatment of autism (ASD) through Autologous Umbilical Cord Blood (AUCB) Reinfusion. The trial aimed to determine if umbilical cord blood stem cells can improve ASD symptoms.

Cryoviva Singapore joined in and contributed to the clinical trial by releasing cord blood for two of its clients who had enrolled to participate. The participants (Children aged 24 – 60 months who were diagnosed with ASD) were successfully infused with their own cord blood after thorough pre-infusion quality assurance tests and HLA typing had been carried out. All tracked parameters were reported normal one month after infusion, thus meeting the requirements of the trial. The outcome of the trial is expected to be released in due course. More details on this study can be found here.