As part of Autism awareness, we need to be aware of prevalence of Autism. Many different numbers are floating around in different documents. I believe, the numbers give us an indication of how deep this disorder has spread among us. The very first study seems to have done is in 1970 in the US, indicated a number “1 in 10,000”. In 2018, the number stands at “1 in 36”. An alarming rate of increase, 277 fold. [Source: “Political Economy of Autism”, by Toby Rogers, University of Sydney, 2018].
Some of the studies show India’s number to be at around “1 in 100”. Even that number is frightening. These are based on some localised studies focussing few areas.
The number in China seems to be “1 in 385” even in 2018, comparatively lower compared to other countries.
Additional cost that families have to bear to take care of family member(s) with Autism is also increasing day by day. It is not easy to find right therapists, doctors and care givers. With about 12-17% annual increase in prevalence, it is getting tougher for families to find resources to manage an Autistic person in family.
There are many professional bodies, that try to help families manage this, in their own way. But, I don’t see any coordinated activities among different NGOs. Need of the hour is, awareness among common public, willingness to accept persons with Autism as part of society, and contribute in making each and every service in the country inclusive. A long way to go.. Many battles to fight..
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