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It is quite well known that at this point in time there is no actual cure for autism, yet an earlier diagnosis of the disorder will help in selecting a treatment that will help the individual better cope with day to day life. Therapy may be in two different forms, depending on the degree of autism exhibited by the patient. In examining the autism statistics, the earlier the therapy is started, the more positive will be the results. in general terms it appears that treatment administered to a child between two to three years old, has the most chance of success. Waiting until the later ages can decrease this result by as much as 36 percent.

Steady Rise Over Two Decades

According to the latest autism statistics, the number of children diagnosed with autism is rising steadily. It appears that since the 80’s the number of people afflicted with this condition has increase by 600%. These children can only hope that their therapy will start before they are three years old and even then the chance of a total recovery is less then 40%. Doctors say that the autistic child’s nervous system is not set up properly and that therapy will prevent further damage and partially repair the problem. Every year that delays the therapy appears to allow the nervous system to solidify and stabilize its condition making it harder and harder to effect proper repairs.

The most unfortunate thing is that less than 10 percent of the diagnosed children are recommended for therapy, and only 3%-4% actually do receive treatment. the reason for this is that the therapy is expensive and costs more then most people can afford. The autism statistics clearly indicate that a minimum of 25 hours of therapy per week is necessary for any hope of improvement. The costs are prohibitive and the government does not have sufficient funds or the priority to help. Many parents, will try and undertake special training themselves so that they can administer the required therapy and help their autistic child. In the absence of a better solution this will have to do for now. The real solution is for the government to recognize the need to step in and provide help. Only then will this problem even begin to be resolved.

By: Kerry Ng

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