World Autism Awareness Day today

ISLAMABAD: World Autism Awareness Day is being observed today across the world including Pakistan to increase people's awareness about people, especially children, with autism.

The day often features educational events for teachers, health care workers and parents, as well as exhibitions showcasing work created by children with autism.

World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) theme is "Autism: Early intervention is key "and slogan, "know the signs; Act now".

Many events are organized on World Autism Awareness Day. These include: Panel discussions with autism experts, politicians and non-governmental organization (NGO) representatives. Informational events for parents of children with autism and conferences and workshops for professionals working with people with autism.

Autism is a developmental disability that remains with a person for his or her whole life. This condition affects the brain's functions.

Autism affects girls and boys of all races and in all geographic regions and has a large impact on children, their families, communities and societies.

The prevalence is currently rising in many countries around the world.

Caring for and educating children and young people with this condition places challenges on health care, education and training programs.

On November 1, 2007, the United Nations (UN) called for one day each year to be designated as World Autism Day. On December 18, 2007, the UN General Assembly designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day. It was first observed in 2008.