National Autism Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

Did you know that April is National Autism Awareness Month? This is a time where we all come together to raise awareness for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD affects 1 in 68 children in the United States, so it’s important that we all do our part to learn more about it. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the basics of ASD and what you need to know about it. We will also provide some resources for those who want to learn more. 

So, what exactly is ASD? ASD is a developmental disorder that can cause social, communication, and behavioral challenges. It is important to note that ASD is a spectrum disorder, which means that it affects each person differently. Some people with ASD may be nonverbal, while others may speak but have difficulty with social interactions. The symptoms of ASD can range from mild to severe. 

There is no one cause of ASD, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is currently no cure for ASD, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. Early intervention is often key in helping people with ASD reach their full potential. 

If you would like to learn more about ASD, there are many great resources available. We have listed a few of them below.

The Autism Society: The Autism Society is a national organization that provides support and advocacy for people with ASD and their families. They offer a variety of resources on their website, including information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and more. 

Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks is a leading advocacy organization for people with ASD. They offer resources on their website for families, individuals, and professionals. They also have a handy tool to help you find services in your area. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC has a lot of great information on ASD, including cause and prevalence, early signs, diagnosis, and treatment. They also offer resources for families and caregivers.

The physicians and staff at Bay Area Family Physicians appreciate the opportunity to provide your medical services. We want to strengthen communication between our office and you, our patients. As specialists in Family Medicine, we focus on primary care needs for patients of all ages – from newborns to the elderly. We diagnose and treat almost all medical conditions. Ideally, your entire family will see the same doctor, allowing both you and your doctor to establish a close, trusting relationship. Contact us today for more information!