First World Autism Day marked

Malta yesterday joined the rest of the world to mark the first World Autism Awareness Day, which will be observed annually as from this year, the Health Division said.

Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, causing restricted and repetitive behaviour. It starts before the child reaches the age of three.

In a statement the Division yesterday said the main aim of this day was to raise international awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of this brain condition. It was also important to address the misconception that society has of this condition and the concerns of parents of children with autism.

The Health Division said it recognises this first World Autism Awareness Day and is committed to increase awareness among health care professionals and the public of this condition which has been described as "one of the mysteries of medicine".