Every year on April 2, World Autism Awareness Day is observed. This day raises awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) which is a developmental brain disorder which impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others. This condition may cause problems in social interaction and communication. The condition may also include limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. Origin of World Autism DayIt was started in 2007, when the United Nations General Assembly designated 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day. The UN worked to promote the full realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms for autistic individuals and ensured their equal participation in society. In fact, over the years, progress has been made and driven in large by autistic advocates who have worked tirelessly to bring the lived experiences of autistic individuals to the forefront of global discussions. The 2007 General Assembly resolution also highlighted the need to raise public awareness of autism. Theme of World Autism DayThe theme for 2025 is "Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)". This goal highlights the intersection between neurodiversity and global sustainability efforts and showcases how inclusive policies and practices can drive positive change for autistic individuals worldwide and contribute to the achievement of SDG. This year's theme and discussion also explores at the role of neurodiversity in shaping policies that promote accessibility, equality, and innovation across multiple sectors. Significance of World Autism DayThe day aims to foster a better understanding of autism and the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. The day also tries to promote awareness and acceptance and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with autism. What Is Autism?As per the American Psychiatric Association, ASD is a complex developmental condition involving persistent challenges with social communication, restricted interests and repetitive behavior. While autism is considered a lifelong condition, the need for services and supports because of these challenges varies among individuals with autism. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated one in 36 children have been identified with ASD. Recent News Around AutismRamsey's Diagnosis: Recently, star of HBO's hit drama Bella Ramsey opened up about their autism diagnosis. They credited a crew member for recognizing the signs and symptoms.Ramsey shared that they were diagnosed while filing the first season of the series.“I’ve spoken a bit about neurodivergence before, but I always for some reason didn’t want to,” Ramsey admitted. “I got diagnosed with autism when I was filming season one of The Last of Us.”While filming in Canada, a crew member who also has an autistic daughter noticed certain similarities in Ramsey's behavior and suspected that they too might be autistic. This observation was what prompted Ramsey to seek a formal psychiatric assessment, and thus leading to their diagnosis.Ramsey also reflected on their childhood and described feeling out of place in school and finding comfort in the company of adults. They also recalled that they had experienced sensory sensitivities common among autistic individuals, such as heightened awareness of micro-expressions and body language. Ramsey also mentioned that filming in Canada's cold condition was also challenging as the heavy waterproof gear and thermals were required on the set. "It was too much stuff on my body," they shared talking about sensory discomfort.ALSO READ: If Vaccines Don't Cause Autism-Here's What DoesCDC's Vaccine Study: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is planning to examine potential link between vaccines and autism. This has all come up in the backdrop of the claims by the now Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, who has suggested the link between vaccines and autism. This has been backed by President Trump as well.This originated from now debunked 1998 study, which was retracted after its author, Andrew Wakefield, was found guilty of professional misconduct and barred from practicing medicine in the UK. Despite decades or research no such link could be proven, however, the claim still continues in the political and public discourse.Kennedy, who had long been anti-vaxxer, also made numerous claims, even though studies have long debunked this theory.
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