'The Healthy Juan': Does my child have autism?

According to a study made by PhilHealth, there are about 1.6 million people aged 19 years old and below who have developmental disabilities, one of them being autism.

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by either one or a combination of the following: social impairments, cognitive impairments, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors.

Because autism is a spectrum disorder, it can range from very mild to very severe and can occur in all ethnic, socioeconomic, and age groups that can appear as early as infancy and childhood. By recognizing the early signs and symptoms, parents can help reduce the disorder's effect and help their child thrive in life.

So what are the warning signs?

1. Doesn't make eye contact when being fed
2. Doesn't respond to his or her name, or the sound of a familiar voice
3. Doesn't follow objects visually or your gesture when you point things out
4. Doesn't point or wave goodbye, or use gestures to communicate
5. Doesn't make noises to get your attention
6. Doesn't initiate or respond to affections like cuddling
7. Doesn't imitate your movements and facial expressions
8. Don't play with other people or share interest and enjoyment; and
9. Don't notice or care if you experience discomfort

According to an interview with Dr. Napoleon Arevalo of the Department of Health, parents must observe the behaviors and quirks of their child early on to detect any sign of autism.

Adding, “Wala talaga tayong matutukoy na dahilan ng autism. Sinasabi nila genetic o non-genetic, nasasalin sa henerasyon o environmental factors.

“Ito ay isang panghabang-buhay na kapansanan ng isang bata subalit meron tayong mga facilities at health professionals na maaring tumulong tulad ng neuro-developmental pediatrician, speech therapist, occupational therapist, at psychologist.”

For parents seeking counsel, there are several hospitals found in the Philippines who can help kids with developmental disabilities like the Philippine Children's Medical Center and the National Children's Hospital.

For more information on autism, watch the video below from The Healthy Juan

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