April is World Autism Month. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 59 children in the United States today. [1]
We know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently. [1]
At Eloquest Healthcare, we put an emphasis on giving back to the community. It is something that we do as an organized team and something we encourage our employees to do as individuals in their communities. As part of our corporate giving initiative, this month we are fund raising in support of Autism Speaks and their dedication to advancing research into causes and better treatments for autism spectrum disorders and related conditions.
Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of people with autism and their families. They do this through Increasing Global Understanding and Acceptance, Advancing Breakthroughs in Autism Research, Expanding Early Childhood Screening and Intervention, Improving the Transition to Adulthood, and Ensuring Access to Reliable Information across the Life Span.
In recognition of World Autism Month, we #LightItUpBlue by wearing blue on April 2nd to promote understanding and acceptance for people with autism. Some of our Eloquest employees speak to the importance of giving back and World Autism Month below:
