What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and autism are both common terms used for a group of complex neuro-developmental disorders. Autism is a neuro-developmental disorder which affects the normal brain functions and causes impairments in speech, social interaction, communication and behaviours. According to the May 2013 publication of DSM V diagnostic manual, all the autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD. Whereas, previously they were recognized as distinct sub-types, including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder- not otherwise specified (PDD- NOS) and Asperger Syndrome. The symptoms of autism becomes prominent in children when they are 3 years old and it is 5 times more common among boys (1 in 42) than among girls (1 in 189). According to CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, about 1 in 68 children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  Despite normal physical appearance, their daily functioning is affected. Children with autism have special needs that must be catered to differently.