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Autism Awareness in Ahmedabad: Big Relief for Parents

Autism Awareness in Ahmedabad Shows Urgent Need for Early Diagnosis

On the eve of World Autism Awareness Day, doctors in Gujarat shared strong views on autism care, while also providing financial help for children in need. Experts like Dr Ketan Patel and Dr Jayesh Sheth stressed the role of diet, exercise and early diagnosis, while also pointing to growing global concern around autism.

Dr Patel said that 80 percent of autism cases can be improved through diet and exercise. Many global health bodies agree that lifestyle plays a key role. Studies published in journals such as The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health show that structured routines, balanced nutrition and physical activity help improve behaviour, sleep and focus in children with autism. Foods rich in omega-3, iron and vitamins are often linked with better brain function. Regular exercise, even simple activities like walking or swimming for 30 minutes a day, can reduce anxiety and improve social response.

He added that the remaining 20 percent of children may need medicines due to genetic or metabolic reasons. This aligns with research from centres like the National Institute of Mental Health, which shows autism is not one single condition but a spectrum. Some children have deeper biological factors that need medical support along with therapy.

Dr Patel also spoke about the role of homoeopathy in genetic and metabolic autism. While opinions differ worldwide, many alternative medicine studies claim that personalised treatment may help manage symptoms. However, organisations like the World Health Organisation advise that any treatment plan should be safe, monitored and combined with proven therapies such as speech therapy and behavioural training.

He further claimed that gene-related effects can be reduced up to 90 percent. Global research in genetics shows that autism often involves changes in multiple genes, especially those linked to brain signalling. While complete reversal is not yet proven in mainstream science, early therapy has shown strong improvement in communication and daily skills. For example, Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), widely used in countries like the UK and the USA, has helped many children develop speech and social skills over time.

Dr Patel also said that Western treatment protocols do not always give quick results and that India needs its own approach. This reflects a wider debate in global healthcare. Many experts now support customised care based on local diet, environment and culture. In India, family involvement, traditional food habits and early schooling support can play a strong role in a child’s progress.

Dr Jayesh Sheth explained that autism is not intellectual disability but a condition where brain wiring is affected. This view is widely accepted. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects how a person communicates, learns and interacts. Many children have normal intelligence but struggle with speech and social connections.

He pointed out that early diagnosis is key. Research shows that children diagnosed before the age of 3 respond better to therapy. In the UK, early intervention programmes have shown that children can improve language skills by up to 50 percent within a year of structured therapy.

The doctors also shared that they are supporting over 100 children with up to Rs. 5 lakh annually. This step is important because autism care can be costly. Therapy sessions, special education and tests can cost families thousands of rupees every month. Support like this can change lives, especially for low-income families.

Globally, autism cases are rising. Earlier estimates suggested 1 in 36 children, while newer reports from the CDC suggest even higher numbers. Experts believe this rise is partly due to better awareness and diagnosis. More parents now recognise early signs and seek help.

The symptoms listed, such as delayed speech, lack of eye contact, repetitive behaviour and sensitivity to sound, are widely recognised signs. Many parenting forums and medical guides stress that noticing two or more of these signs early should lead to a professional check-up.

The article mentions that autism cannot be diagnosed through scans like MRI or CT. This is correct. Diagnosis is mainly behavioural. Doctors observe how a child speaks, plays and responds. Tools like structured questionnaires and developmental checklists are commonly used worldwide.

The two-stage diagnosis process explained by the doctors is similar to global practice. First, general screening is done. Then, specialists such as developmental paediatricians or child psychologists confirm the condition. In countries like the UK, this process is done through the NHS with a team approach.

The causes of autism are still not fully known. Research suggests a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Conditions like infections during pregnancy, thyroid issues and pollution are being studied. However, no single cause has been confirmed.

The mention of vaccines remains controversial. Large-scale studies, including those reviewed by the WHO and CDC, have found no proven link between vaccines like MMR and autism. Most global health experts strongly support vaccination as safe and essential.

April is observed as Autism Awareness Month, with landmarks around the world lighting up in blue. Famous sites like the Eiffel Tower and Burj Khalifa take part in this effort. These campaigns aim to reduce stigma and encourage early diagnosis.

Overall, experts agree on one key point. Early action matters. With the right mix of therapy, family support, diet and medical care, many children with autism can improve their quality of life and become more independent over time.