Standing by autistic children

Like other countries, Bangladesh observed World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. Official statistics say that there are more than 50,000 autistic children across the country. However, because of the social stigma which still surrounds the condition, it is possible that the number is actually much greater than the official data. And the rate is increasing day by day, but we are still far behind in addressing the issue. We must raise awareness among all our people about these children who need special care and attention. Ignorance can lead us to considering them as a burden in our society.

Early signs of autism can often be detected in children as young as 2-3 years and it is advisable that parents start treatment as soon as possible. Symptoms of autism can be noticed in a child's lack of response to his/her name or to playing games, their avoidance of eye contact, recurrence of speech errors, or unusual reactions to sound, smell, taste, or touch. If detected early enough, the child can be helped and given appropriate attention. The authorities concerned should launch an effective awareness campaign on autism and ensure all kinds of support to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Shahjahan Sirazi,

Malibagh, Dhaka,

mshaju001@gmail.com