{"id":768,"date":"2016-11-29T08:00:03","date_gmt":"2016-11-29T08:00:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/imperialighi.wordpress.com\/?p=768"},"modified":"2019-03-29T10:41:53","modified_gmt":"2019-03-29T10:41:53","slug":"autism-a-global-framework-for-action","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.imperial.ac.uk\/ighi\/2016\/11\/29\/autism-a-global-framework-for-action\/","title":{"rendered":"Autism: A global framework for action"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"autism_report-1\"<\/a>Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) represents a group of lifelong neurodevelopmental disorders emerging during early childhood and interfering with a person\u2019s ability to socially relate to and interact with others.<\/p>\n

As of 2010, there were an estimated 52 million cases of ASD worldwide, representing a substantial increase over the past 40 years. Meanwhile, the economic impact of ASD in the United States (US) alone \u2013 based on direct medical, direct non-medical and productivity costs \u2013 reached an estimated $268 billion in 2015, a figure that is expected to rise to $461 billion by 2025.\u00a0 ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders also affect the quality of life of those with the conditions, as well as of their families\u00a0and caregivers.<\/p>\n

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The new report \u2018Autism: a global framework for action\u2019<\/a>, which is to be discussed this morning at the World Innovation Summit for Health<\/a> (WISH) provides an overview of ASD and the challenges we face globally in supporting and caring for those with the condition.<\/p>\n

Report focus <\/strong><\/p>\n

\"autism\"<\/a>This report<\/a> offers policy recommendations to improve support for children with ASD, their families, and communities.<\/p>\n

The causes of ASD are not clear-cut, but evidence suggests that multiple genetic risk factors and environmental factors, including prenatal exposure to drugs, pesticides and viruses, play a role.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Report insights <\/strong><\/p>\n

To date, 86.5 percent of all ASD cases have been reported in high-income countries, where only 20 percent of the population resides. However, this likely reflects a lack of population-based studies in low- and middle income countries, potentially underestimating the number of cases in these countries and under-representing the impact of ASD worldwide.<\/p>\n

Policymakers must increase awareness and rates of early diagnosis; ensure that children with ASD have access to evidence-based therapies; implement family support systems; support access to public education, vocational training and assisted employment; and participate in high quality research and surveillance.<\/p>\n

The report<\/a> proposes three primary policy recommendations for policymakers to support a multi-sector response to ASD that encompasses health, education and social services:<\/p>\n