Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that has been recognized for centuries, was first described by Dr. Leo Kanner in his 1943 paper “Autistic Disturbances of Affective Contact.” This marked a significant milestone in understanding and diagnosing the condition.
In recent years, there have been changes in the way autism is diagnosed and classified. In 2013, a new name was introduced for a collection of diagnoses that includes Asperger Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Autism Spectrum Disorder. This change aimed to encompass a broader range of symptoms and presentations within the autism spectrum.
Renowned actor Anthony Hopkins, known for his role in “Silence of the Lambs,” revealed that he has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, specifically Asperger’s. This disclosure shed light on the diversity of individuals who may be impacted by autism.
While the exact genetic causes of Autism Spectrum Disorder are still not completely understood, scientific research has shown strong genetic links to the condition. This ongoing study aims to further unravel the genetic components that contribute to autism.
Boys are almost five times more likely to be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder compared to girls. Scientists believe that this gender difference may be due to variations in how symptoms present in boys and girls, with girls often exhibiting symptoms differently and therefore being less likely to receive a diagnosis.
