Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Health Care Services for Underserved Populations
Date Issued
2022
Author(s)
Abstract
This chapter presents key information related to Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
for the attention of National Policy Members, stakeholders, lawmakers, and healthcare
professionals. We set out to encourage the fostering and advocacy for greater health
literacy pertinent to ASD. In our opinion, it is of particular importance to advance
the knowledge on issues related to prevalence, early symptomatology, diagnostic
characteristic etiology, aberrant behaviours, daily living challenges, disorders of verbal
and nonverbal communication, schooling adaptation, social pragmatic deficits, and
difficulties related to emotional affect. An increased awareness on these topics is
paramount as awareness, particularly on early detection of symptoms, can lead to timely
assessment and diagnosis. Early detection of ASD signs and early diagnosis through an
interdisciplinary management programme contributes to positive therapy outcomes
(Koegel & Koegel, 1995; Petinou & Minaidou, 2017; Rapin, et al., 2009; Richard, 1997).
A recent publication by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2020)
reports significant progress for early ASD screening resulting from rigorous research
investigations and systematic ASD awareness campaigns over the past ten years. These
efforts have capitalized on the available data and allow the fostering of ASD awareness.
Robust advocacy for ASD has been undertaken by the NGO organizations including
Autism Speaks (2016) and Ad Council. Increased screening has contributed to the
lowering of the age of diagnosis, especially in minority populations and in individuals
with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. A recent report by the World Health
Organization (WHO, 2019) underscores the importance of implementing integrated
services in accordance with the person’s individual needs and preferences.
People with ASD do not differ from the rest of the population when it comes
to health problems. Nevertheless, their special needs and co-occurring conditions
necessitate awareness from politicians supported by committees who can address the
societal needs and the level of support to increase the quality of life, access to services,
family support and availability to resources of best service provision according to the
Declaration of Human Rights (DHR) (United Nations, 1948).
for the attention of National Policy Members, stakeholders, lawmakers, and healthcare
professionals. We set out to encourage the fostering and advocacy for greater health
literacy pertinent to ASD. In our opinion, it is of particular importance to advance
the knowledge on issues related to prevalence, early symptomatology, diagnostic
characteristic etiology, aberrant behaviours, daily living challenges, disorders of verbal
and nonverbal communication, schooling adaptation, social pragmatic deficits, and
difficulties related to emotional affect. An increased awareness on these topics is
paramount as awareness, particularly on early detection of symptoms, can lead to timely
assessment and diagnosis. Early detection of ASD signs and early diagnosis through an
interdisciplinary management programme contributes to positive therapy outcomes
(Koegel & Koegel, 1995; Petinou & Minaidou, 2017; Rapin, et al., 2009; Richard, 1997).
A recent publication by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2020)
reports significant progress for early ASD screening resulting from rigorous research
investigations and systematic ASD awareness campaigns over the past ten years. These
efforts have capitalized on the available data and allow the fostering of ASD awareness.
Robust advocacy for ASD has been undertaken by the NGO organizations including
Autism Speaks (2016) and Ad Council. Increased screening has contributed to the
lowering of the age of diagnosis, especially in minority populations and in individuals
with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. A recent report by the World Health
Organization (WHO, 2019) underscores the importance of implementing integrated
services in accordance with the person’s individual needs and preferences.
People with ASD do not differ from the rest of the population when it comes
to health problems. Nevertheless, their special needs and co-occurring conditions
necessitate awareness from politicians supported by committees who can address the
societal needs and the level of support to increase the quality of life, access to services,
family support and availability to resources of best service provision according to the
Declaration of Human Rights (DHR) (United Nations, 1948).
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