Specialised healthcare essential to improve the people with autism
World Autism Awareness Day was celebrated across the world on April 2 (Thursday).
The United Nations officially recognized the day in 2007, with the aim of raising awareness about autism worldwide.
Since then, the day has been celebrated worldwide through various programmes.
Bangladesh is no exception. However, this year, due to some unavoidable reasons, the day will be celebrated on April 20.
This year’s theme for Autism Awareness Day, “Autism is not a limitation, every life is precious,” is a reminder of this reality.
It teaches us that difference does not mean weakness, but rather can become a strength if society accepts that difference and ensures the necessary support.
One of the most popular and notable initiatives around Autism Awareness Day is the ‘Light It Up Blue Campaign.’
Basically, the blue light is used to make the existence of autism visible to everyone.
In addition, various meetings and seminars are organized. But the question is, to what extent have these symbolic initiatives helped create public awareness about autism?
Sadly, despite the passage of many years, a large section of society still has a negative view of autism.
Even today, it is associated with various superstitions. Many families still hide their autistic children and feel shy about taking them to social events.
In many cases, autism is even described as ‘madness’. It can be assumed that ignorance and lack of awareness are largely responsible for this.
Due to these reasons, the number of children with autism is gradually increasing in the country.
Last year, the Institute of Pediatric Neurodisorders and Autism (IPNA) of Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) mentioned, in rural areas, 17 out of every 10,000 children aged 16-30 months and 25 in urban areas have autism.
A study by BMU last year found that one in every 589 children in the country is affected by autism.
But the country does not have enough trained manpower for autism diagnosis and therapy.
The number of speech therapists, occupational therapists, or behavior specialists is insufficient compared to the demand.
This crisis is more pronounced in districts and rural areas. Many families are forced to head to the capital for treatment.
But financially, many families cannot do that. Our stance on autism is still largely symbolic.
Buildings are illuminated with blue light, but that light does not reach the psyche of the people.
The need of the hour is to eliminate this contradiction. It is necessary to remember that it is possible to move towards an inclusive society only through ensuring specialized healthcare and developing a positive outlook.
