South Asian Autism Network To Hold Conference In New Delhi

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi will inaugurate a conference of South Asian Autism Network (SAAN) in New Delhi on February 11.

Experts from India, Bangladesh, Thailand and eight other southeast Asian countries will deliberate at a day-long conference to identify common challenges.

Autism Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prognosis
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder typically characterized by impaired social and communication skills combined with repetitive movements.

Autism is a developmental disorder characterized by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges and repetitive behaviors. Diagnosis is difficult due to use of different criteria.

World Health Organization data shows an escalation in autism cases from 10 percent to 14 percent between 1990 and 2011. It is expected to rise to 15 percent by 2020.

The aim of the meeting is to identify common challenges each country is facing and form a partnership to develop solutions in a collaborating and coordinated fashion, a health ministry official said.

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Autism is characterized by developmental disturbances in social interaction, behavior and language. Air pollutants exposure can lead to autism development in infants and during pregnancy.

The conference will also explore establishing a regional autism awareness campaign, creating joint programs for information-sharing and professional training, and defining national and regional strategies to advance autism public health research and policy development.

During the conference, representatives from India and Bangladesh will present the official SAAN Charter for adoption by all network member states.

Autism - What's Missing in the Genes?
Scientists have carried out a study on variations in gene expression to evaluate the role of genes in individuals with autism.

Bhutan, Democratic Republic of Korea, Indonesia, the Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Timor-Leste will also take part in the event.

Source-IANS

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