Print Print edition: 2012-04-02

World Autism Awareness Day today

Published Updated

World Autism Awareness Day will be observed on April 2 (today) across the world including Pakistan to increase people's awareness about people, especially children, with autism. The day often features educational events for teachers, health care workers and parents, as well as exhibitions showcasing work created by children with autism.
World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) theme is "Autism: Early intervention is key "and slogan, "know the signs; Act now". Many events are organised on World Autism Awareness Day including panel discussions with autism experts, politicians and representatives of non-governmental organisation (NGO). Informational events for parents of children with autism and conferences and workshops for professionals working with people with autism will also be organised. Autism is a developmental disability that remains with a person for his or her whole life. This condition affects the brain's functions. Autism affects girls and boys of all races and in all geographic regions and has a large impact on children, their families, communities and societies.
The prevalence is currently rising in many countries around the world. Caring for and educating children and young people with this condition places challenges on health care, education and training programs.