by Dr. Kelly Boyatt
When I was pregnant with my third child we decided to keep the gender a surprise. At the moment of delivery as my OB announced it was a boy, I had a fleeting instant of panic, “Oh no, now we have to worry about autism.” As a family physician who enjoys seeing pediatric patients, I am acutely aware of the growing numbers of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnoses.
As a parent, and physician, I am alarmed by this rapid growth. Current reports estimate that 1 out of 110 children is being diagnosed with ASD, with boys being three to four times more likely than girls to be diagnosed. It is estimated that 1 out of 70 boys now have a diagnosis of ASD. Generally, children diagnosed with this disorder have delays in speech, motor function, socialization and behavior, but the severity can vary greatly from child to child.
Researchers are working diligently to piece apart the causes of ASD. As with many diseases we believe that both genetics (a family history of autism or anxiety) and a trigger in the child’s environment (older age of parents, viral infection during pregnancy, the mother’s own health issues – like an autoimmune disorder, and possibly toxins or chemicals) work together to cause ASD . Although many blame vaccinations on the growing rate of ASD there has been no evidence-based study to support this theory.
Because early intervention can significantly improve the function of children with ASD, early diagnosis is extremely important. Initial signs may include poor eye contact, lack of social smile, not responding when his or her name is called, delay in speech, and not displaying a normal ability to play with toys. Other signs may include lack of pointing to show the parent something of interest, extreme sensitivity to noises or textures, repetitive behaviors, arm flapping, or motor delays (such as walking).
Early screening can be administered by the child’s doctor with a questionnaire called the MCHAT. Parents should seek evaluation if their child has no babbling or gesturing (pointing or waving) by 12 months, no single words by 16 months and no two word phrases by two years of age. The county provides excellent resources through Inland Regional Center which includes both testing and home based therapies for speech, play and behavior.
We must be the advocates for our children. You know your child best and if you have concerns about your child’s development you need to bring it to the attention of your child’s physician immediately. Early intervention provides the child the best chance at success at fighting ASD.
Dr. Kelly Boyatt specializes in Family Medicine at Graybill Medical Group, 31537 Rancho Pueblo Road in Temecula. Her office can be reached at (951) 303-2277.