WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | Parents should watch for early autism signs

Parents should watch for early autism signs

(National-NBC) Feb. 23, 2005 - Studies show the earlier you diagnose autism and start intervention the better the outcome for the child.

Bryce Martinez was 18-months-old when his parents first noticed some developmental delays. His mom, Angela, says, "There was no eye contact. Every time I would put him on my lap he would look everywhere else except at me."

Bryce was diagnosed with autism, a condition characterized by delays in language and social interaction and a display of repetitive behaviors.

Nancy Wiseman of "First Signs" says, "Parents should really be focusing on ... the core developmental milestones: social, emotional and communication."

Experts say it is important for parents and pediatricians to look for signs early, "Developmental screening and surveillance should be part of every well-visit." By 1-year-old, for example, children should be pointing, gesturing and responding to their name.

In fact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention launched a campaign called "Learn the Signs: Act Early." CDC's Julie Gerberding says, "This campaign is about raising people's awareness to recognize autism but also reminding them to take action, that there really are important steps that can be taken, and children will benefit."

Children like Bryce, who with an early diagnosis and early intervention has already made progress his parents can see.

posted 9:52am by Chris Rees