Photo: Annie Spratt-
Tahsinul Mobashara Tiana –
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by differences in the brain that affects a person’s communication, social interaction, and behavior. The latest findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show worldwide 75 million people are living with autism, which is about 1% of the world’s population. However, this figure could be an underestimate, as many cases may go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
The highest prevalence of childhood autism rate is found in the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa, whereas the largest numbers of young autistic children reside in developing or low- and middle-income nations, including over one million children each in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.
According to a study by Autistic Children’s Welfare Foundation it was estimated that about 300,000 children were affected with autism in Bangladesh with one case in every 94 boys, and one in every 150 girls, was estimated to suffer from ASD. In the study by the Ministry of Social welfare of Bangladesh, the prevalence came out as 3% of the total population. But this study included all the age groups.
The exact cause of autism is still unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Researchers have identified several genes that are associated with autism, but no single gene has been identified as the cause of the disorder. Studies have shown that certain risk factors, such as advanced parental age, premature birth, and low birth weight, and environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins and infections during pregnancy, may increase the likelihood of developing autism.
A research work published in F1000Research found that 56.1% of the mothers of ASD-suspected children had a low level or no formal education background.
According to this study, 74.2% of mothers of suspected cases were between the ages of 18 and 30. Mothers who became pregnant at a young age had a higher incidence of autistic children. In contrast with the study, the rising maternal age was linked to a higher incidence of autism. It was also discovered that boys were more likely to have autism than girls (65% vs. 55%).
According to the CDC, ASD begins before the age of 3 years and can last throughout a person’s life, although symptoms may improve over time. Some children may show the symptoms within 12 months of age, the others might show up after 2 years of age or later. Some ASD children develop new skills and reach developmental milestones up to the age of 18 to 24 months, at which point they stop gaining any new skills or lose the abilities they previously possessed.
Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means that it affects individuals in different ways and to varying degrees. Some people with autism may have significant challenges with communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors, while others may have mild symptoms and excel in certain areas.
Autism often comes with different comorbidities range of physical and mental health conditions frequently accompany autism. They include but are not limited to, feeding issues and gastrointestinal (GI) problems, obesity, epilepsy/seizures, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
ASD affects each person differently. So, diagnosing autism can be challenging, as there is no single medical test that can diagnose the condition. Instead, diagnosis is based on behavioral observations and assessments.
Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with autism, and the most effective treatments are behavioral therapies, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Medications may also be used to treat certain symptoms, such as anxiety and depression. Educational and school-based therapies are also applied which can be followed by occupational therapies.
Food habits and nutrition can play an important role in the management of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Individuals with autism may have unique dietary needs, preferences, and sensitivities, and a balanced and healthy diet can help improve their overall health and well-being.
Some individuals with autism may have certain food aversions or sensitivities, which can affect their dietary intake and nutrient status. Common food sensitivities in autism include gluten, dairy, and artificial additives, such as preservatives and food dyes. These sensitivities can lead to gastrointestinal issues, behavioral problems, and other health concerns.
As a result, many individuals have turned to specialized diets, such as the gluten-free casein-free (GFCF) diet, to manage symptoms of autism. Regardless of whether an individual with autism follows a specialized diet, it is important to ensure that their diet is balanced and nutrient-dense. A balanced diet should include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and healthy fats. It is also important to limit the intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-fat snacks.
In addition to dietary intake, it is important to consider the role of nutritional supplements in the management of autism. Some studies have shown that certain nutritional supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and probiotics, may be beneficial for individuals with autism.
In Bangladesh, the prevalence of autism is not well documented. There is limited data on the number of children with autism in the country, and many children with autism go undiagnosed and untreated. However, it is believed that the prevalence of autism in Bangladesh is similar to that of other countries.
The lack of awareness and understanding of autism in Bangladesh is a major barrier to early diagnosis and treatment. Many people in Bangladesh do not understand what autism is or how to recognize the symptoms of the disorder. As a result, children with autism may be misdiagnosed with other conditions or may not receive a diagnosis at all.
There are also few resources available for families of children with autism in Bangladesh. There is a shortage of trained professionals, such as psychologists and speech therapists, who can provide specialized services for children with autism. In addition, there are only a handful of specialized schools and therapy centers for children with autism, and these are mainly located in urban areas. Many families in rural areas do not have access to these resources and are left without support. Mainstream schools are often not equipped to meet their needs.
The stigma associated with autism in Bangladesh is another barrier to diagnosis and treatment. Many people in Bangladesh believe that autism is caused by bad parenting or is a result of a curse or punishment. This can lead to blame and shame for families of children with autism and can make it difficult for them to seek help.
Despite these challenges, there are some organizations and individuals in Bangladesh who are working to raise awareness of autism and provide support to families of children with the disorder. These provide assessment, diagnosis, and therapy services for children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. They also conduct research and advocacy work to raise awareness of autism in Bangladesh. The government also has established a national autism center to provide support and awareness.
Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects individuals worldwide. However, there is still a significant lack of awareness and understanding about the condition, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh. This lack of awareness can lead to delayed diagnosis, limited access to appropriate interventions and services, and stigmatization and discrimination against individuals with autism and their families.
Efforts are needed to improve awareness and understanding of autism in Bangladesh and to provide more specialized services and support for children with autism and their families. This will help individuals with autism in Bangladesh lead fulfilling and productive lives.
