Myths and Facts is a good way of understanding any any concept. So I thought of presenting Autism myths and facts in this awareness series. Today presenting two myths.
There is a general perception that ‘Autism can be cured’. As of now there is no cure for autism. Some experimental studies like one published in 2017 covering stem cell transfusion in a small group of ASD patients, show promise. And a 2016 lab experiment on mice showed that blocking production of a particular protein prevented autism-like symptoms from being exposed. Not sure whether all such work will lead to any ‘cure’ for autism. So the focus is more on managing the symptoms and behaviours through therapies, and not “curing” the autism.
Another common myth is that all autistic persons have some exceptional talent. Many people have told me that for disabled (differently abled) people god gives some other talent or skill. This statement is based on the above myth. Studies have shown that only about 10% of individuals on autism spectrum have savant skills. These savant skills are not at all linked to the IQ of the person. Very low function or low IQ individuals with autism can have savant abilities while high-functioning or high IQ individuals with autism may have no extraordinary skills at all. Some research studies show that ‘savantism’ is seen in about 1% of general population, whereas it is seen in about 10% of autistic individuals.
I will conclude today’s post with a quote by Kerry Magro. “Autism can’t define me. I define Autism”.
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