Apr 2 2011
In celebration of World Autism Day, April 2, the Global Autism Alliance will launch its Internet website, www.GlobalAutismAlliance.com, and premiere a video co-produced by representatives from around the world. The Global Autism Alliance is a formal collaboration of autism organizations worldwide, and the founding organizations are from Australia, Canada, Chile, France, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Puerto Rico, and the United States.
The goal of the Global Autism Alliance is to distribute quality information about diagnosis, treatment, and education to government and professional agencies, families with a child on the autism spectrum, and the general public. These goals will be accomplished through sponsorship of international webinars; conferences for professionals and for parents; translation of important documents, networking clinics worldwide, and more.
According to a U.S. government survey, autism occurs in 1 in 110 children; and this prevalence rate is thought to be very similar worldwide.
Autism is a treatable disorder, but most individuals on the spectrum do not receive adequate treatment. Many individuals on the spectrum suffer from rather moderate to severe medical issues including gastrointestinal problems, immune system dysfunction, and metabolic abnormalities Furthermore, they respond very well to many interventions including nutritional support, restricted diets, specially designed educational programs, and more.
Unfortunately, governments and professional organizations worldwide do not actively seek research documenting medical problems associated with autism spectrum disorders nor the benefits from intervention. Consequently, there are relatively few medical doctors, therapists, and educators who are properly trained to treat the unique characteristics of autism.
The Global Autism Alliance plans to improve the quality of life for those on the autism spectrum and their families by raising worldwide awareness of autism including accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate education.
SOURCE Global Autism Alliance
Neuroimaging study reveals structural brain differences in children with autism