The Reaction is Worse Than the Numbers
The new statistics for autism have been published and the numbers are frightening. If you are involved with the autism community you have most likely already seen or heard these numbers talked about. It is all the buzz on all the forums and blogs. They are approximately one in 100 or 1% of the population is deemed to be on the spectrum. One in 57 boys are considered on the spectrum now. These are our children. This is our future. These numbers are astonishing. However, what I have found to be more terrifying than the numbers themselves is the reaction to these numbers. I am constantly on the Internet looking for tips, gluten-free recipes, resources and the like for my patients. When I have seen since the numbers have come out is a lot of negative reaction. There has been scientific types saying that autism spectrum disorders are not a real diagnosis with a physiologic basis like diabetes or influenza. I read comments such as “this is just a new ADHD or dyslexia.” There were also comments such as this is just poor parenting and disciplining as well as ” in my day we didn’t have so many problems children.” Yes the science is catching up but not quite there yet. But these statements have to be spoken from ignorance and those that are not involved with this community. It is clearly a sign that awareness and education is of paramount importance in this struggle to get research and financial support for this condition. Although I am not aware of the particular statistics, I am certain that there are other medical conditions affecting less than 1% of the population that get much more financial support and awareness than autism spectrum disorders.
Leave a comment