Table of Contents

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning individuals can have a wide range of symptoms and levels of severity. Common characteristics of autism include challenges in social communication, repetitive behaviours, sensory sensitivities, and difficulty with change. Early intervention, therapy, and support services can help individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives.

Autism has various effects, advantages and disadvantages. Individuals with autism may have unique strengths such as attention to detail, strong memory, and a different way of thinking. However, some disadvantages can include difficulties in social interactions, communication barriers, and the need for support in certain areas.

World Autism Day

The Official World Autism Awareness Day is 2ND OF APRIL, and the theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2024: “MOVING FROM SURVIVING TO THRIVING: AUTISTIC INDIVIDUALS SHARE REGIONAL PERSPECTIVES”.

Autism in Nigeria

Autism is a condition rarely talked about in Nigeria. It is considered one of the most ignored health issues in the country. There is low awareness and inadequate provision for early diagnosis and management of the neurodevelopmental disorder.

As a result, children born with autism are denied necessary care because their families cannot bear the financial implications that accompany such a health condition. Some children with autism are also isolated and locked up by their families due to the stigmatisation attached to having a child with autism.

Stigma and discrimination

There is so much stigma surrounding autism and they stem from misconceptions about the disorder. People with autism face stigma due to stereotypes, lack of awareness, and social attitudes. This stigma can lead to discrimination, exclusion, and barriers to accessing support and opportunities.

Autism

Prevalence rate

An increasing prevalence of ASD has been reported worldwide. There are 135 million established cases of autism in the world. It’s estimated that around 1 in 160 children worldwide have an autism spectrum disorder, according to the World Health Organisation.

Applying this prevalence rate to Nigeria’s population, it suggests that hundreds of thousands of individuals in Nigeria might be living with autism. Studies revealed prevalence rates of 1:43.5 in South-West Nigeria and 1:125 in South-Eastern Nigeria. A more recent study in 2014 reported a prevalence of 2.3% nationwide. The research shows that the condition is relatively more common among boys as 45 males and nine females were identified with autism in the 2014 study.

Despite the fact that there are no recent statistics on autism in Nigeria, the majority of persons with autism lack medical, psycho-social and financial support.

Effectiveness of Nigeria’s efforts towards raising awareness about autism Nigeria has been making significant efforts to improve autism awareness in recent years. These efforts include awareness campaigns, training for healthcare professionals, and community outreach programs. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done
to ensure that autism awareness is widespread and that individuals with autism have access to the necessary resources and support they need. Because there are challenges in spreading awareness about autism in Nigeria.

Some of the challenges include limited access to information, cultural beliefs and stigmas surrounding autism, inadequate resources for diagnosis and intervention, as well as a lack of trained professionals in the
field. Additionally, the misconceptions about autism also hinder awareness efforts.

ASD

Bridging the gap

Overcoming these challenges requires continued education, advocacy, and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that accurate information about autism is disseminated and that support services are more widely available across Nigeria. To bridge the gap in spreading awareness about autism in Nigeria, I am starting this campaign with Etta Atlantic memorial hospital and sharing information about autism with the community, also engaging in discussions to dispel myths and abolish the negative stigma.

Additionally, promoting inclusive environments and support for individuals with autism in Nigeria.

Raising awareness

Autism awareness is crucial for promoting understanding and acceptance. Some ways to
increase autism awareness include;

Education and Training
Public Campaigns
Workshops and Seminars
Support Groups
Collaborations with Organisations
Informative Materials

These steps can help foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with autism.

Raising awareness about autism is essential for supporting individuals with autism. Education, early detection, and access to appropriate interventions are key in providing care and support for individuals with autism. While there is no known prevention for autism, early intervention programs, speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioural therapy can help individuals with autism develop skills and reach their full potential.

Creating inclusive environments, promoting acceptance, and advocating for resources and services for individuals with autism are important steps towards providing effective care and support for the autism community.

Autism Spectrum Disorder