Jersey City-The Hudson County Board of Chosen Freeholders recognized April as Autism Awareness Month in Hudson County.
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. It is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal function of the brain and impacts development in the areas of social interacting and communication skills.
Both children and adults with Autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and leisure or play activities.
We should all keep in mind that Autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees, which is why early diagnosis is so crucial.
We should all learn the signs; we can benefit children by directing them to one of the many specialized intervention programs. Although there is no known cure for Autism, early identification, education, intervention, and therapy, can help persons with Autism gain important self-care, social and communication skills.
Autism is the most common of the five Pervasive Developmental Disorders. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 1 in 68 children in the United States are presently affected by Autism, and boys are nearly five times more likely than girls to have Autism.
Based on statistics from the United States Department of Education and other governmental agencies, Autism is growing at a startling rate of 10 to 17 percent per year. At this rate, the Autism Society of America estimates that the prevalence of Autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade.
Autism knows no racial, ethnic, social boundaries, family income, lifestyle, educational levels and can affect any family and any child.
Autism also has wide-ranging implications for the family of a diagnosed individual, such as adjusting parental expectations, holding onto family traditions, maintaining social ties.
The residents of Hudson County appreciate the efforts of doctors, therapists, and caretakers who help persons with Autism by providing excellent care, support and service.
Freeholder Chairman Anthony Vainieri, the Hudson County Board of Freeholders, in conjunction with County Executive Thomas A. DeGise recognize the month of April as “Autism Awareness Month.” All residents of Hudson County are urged to support Autism early intervention programs and ongoing research into these neurological disorders.
All municipalities are urged to pass resolutions bringing awareness of Autism to the forefront.
Release #26