Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that mainly affects children’s social interaction, communication abilities, and behavioral patterns. So, what are the reasons behind the increasing number of children with autism?
1. Update and Expansion of Diagnostic Criteria: Autism was previously considered a singular and rare condition with strict diagnostic criteria. However, in recent years, the definition of autism has become broader, forming the concept of “Autism Spectrum Disorder” (ASD). This means that not only children exhibiting typical symptoms of autism are diagnosed but also those with milder or diverse symptoms, such as social difficulties, narrow interests, and repetitive behaviors. This change has led to the identification and diagnosis of more children who may have been overlooked or misdiagnosed, resulting in the increase in the number of children with autism.
2. Increased Public Awareness: Many people lack understanding of autism and often misinterpret a child’s solitude, introversion, or shyness as personality issues without realizing that these could be signs of autism. With the widespread dissemination of information through media campaigns, charity events, and social networks, knowledge about autism is gradually reaching the public eye, leading to more parents paying attention to and recognizing the existence and risks of autism.
3. Complex Influence of Environmental Factors: In modern life, the exposure to various chemical substances, radiation, and other potentially harmful elements is constantly increasing, which may have adverse effects on the neurological development of children. Additionally, the fast-paced lifestyle and highly competitive societal environment may also contribute to stress on children’s mental health, increasing the risk of autism.
4. Inadequate Medical and Rehabilitation Resources: In many regions, especially remote and economically underdeveloped areas, there is a scarcity of specialized autism diagnosis and rehabilitation facilities, with varying levels of service quality. This leads to many children with autism not receiving timely and effective treatment and intervention, further exacerbating the negative impact of the condition. Therefore, enhancing investment and allocation of medical and rehabilitation resources is also a crucial aspect in addressing the challenges posed by autism.
Why are there more children with autism nowadays? Shenzhen Xiaomixiong, Wu Yiyang. Wu Yiyang, Bachelor’s degree from Jilin University, with over 40 years of clinical practice in pediatrics, has worked at Changchun Children’s Hospital, and published numerous national academic papers in pediatric endocrine systemic diseases and nutritional diseases, accumulating rich theoretical knowledge and clinical experience.
(Image source: Internet)
