World Autism Awareness Day 2013

Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. People with ASD have problems with social and communication skills. Many people with ASD also have unusual ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to sensations.

 The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and it has a tremendous impact on children, their families, communities and societies. 
 

" Autistic spectrum disorder represents a continuum of cognitive and neurobehavioral disorders including autism. The prevalence of autism varies considerably with case ascertainment, ranging from 0.7 – 21.1 per 10 000 children (median 5.2 per 10 000) while the prevalence of autistic spectrum disorder is estimated to be 1 - 6 per 1000. Eleven epidemiological studies (representing the most recent studies, mostly in the last 4 years) were reviewed in detail, taking into consideration study design (including ecologic, case control, case-crossover and cohort studies) and limitations."


Highlights from Autism Speaks's first annual Autism Investment Conference, Feb 21, 2013).

Learn more at http://aic.autismspeaks.org/

Source: youtu.be via Christina on Pinterest

 Resources :

World Austism Awareness Day 2013 
 
 CDC - Data and Statistics, Autism Spectrum Disorders

World Autism Awareness Day, (General Assembly resolution 62/139 (A/RES/62/139))

10am - 1pm: Panel discussion on the implementation of the General Assembly resolution 67/82(A/RES/67/82), entitled “Addressing the socioeconomic needs of individuals, families, and societies affected by autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disorders” (co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Bangladesh, Bahrain, India, Qatar and Saudi Arabia and the United States Mission)

 

1:15 - 3:30pm: Musical performance and panel discussion on “Celebrating the ability within the disability of autism” (organized by the Permanent Mission of the Philippines, in collaboration with the Department of Public Information)

  

4pm - 6pm: Panel discussion on “Transition to adulthood” (organized by the Permanent Mission of the Philippines, in collaboration with the Department of Public Information).

World Autism Awareness Day - 2 April.

Secretary-General's Message for 2012

Autism is not limited to a single region or a country; it is a worldwide challenge that requires global action.

Although developmental disabilities such as autism begin in childhood, they persist throughout a person’s life. Our work with and for people with autism should not be limited to early identification and treatment; it should include therapies, educational plans and other steps that lead us towards sustained, lifelong engagement.

Reaching out to people with autism spectrum disorders requires global political commitment and better international cooperation, especially in sharing good practices. Greater investments in the social, education and labour sectors are crucially important, since developed and developing countries alike still need to improve their capacities to address the unique needs of people with autism and cultivate their talents. We also need to promote further research, train non-specialized care providers, and enable the autism community to more easily navigate care systems to obtain services that can support and mainstream individuals with autism.

The annual observance of World Autism Awareness Day is meant to spur such action and draw attention to the unacceptable discrimination, abuse and isolation experienced by people with autism and their loved ones. As highlighted by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, people with autism are equal citizens who should enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

On this Day in New York, Vienna and Geneva, the United Nations Postal Administration is releasing six commemorative postage stamps and two collectible envelopes dedicated to autism awareness. These tiny pieces of paper — with images created by artists who have been diagnosed with autism — will send a powerful message to people around the world that talent and creativity live inside all of us.

My wife has been very involved with autism awareness and advocacy efforts, and has shared with me inspiring stories not only about individuals with autism, but also about those committed to improving their lives. Let us all continue to join hands to enable people with autism and other neurological differences to realize their potential and enjoy the opportunities and well-being that are their birthright.

Ban Ki-moon