Global experts push for holistic autism support

Metro India News | Hyderabad

Autism should be viewed as a lifelong developmental condition rather than a childhood diagnosis, with continuous support through adolescence, adulthood and old age, experts said at Autism Odyssey 3.0, an international conference on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) held at Rainbow Children's Hospital, Hyderabad.

Organised by the Child Development Centre (CDC) in collaboration with Marham, the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute for the Hearing Handicapped, the Indian Academy of Pediatrics and other organisations, the two-day conference attracted over 1,000 delegates from India and abroad.

Delivering the keynote address, renowned autism advocate Temple Grandin urged society to recognise the strengths of autistic individuals and create opportunities for greater acceptance and independence.

Experts discussed advances in early diagnosis, neuroscience, communication, sensory integration, education, adolescence and independent living. Workshops trained paediatricians in developmental screening, early intervention and timely referrals.

Conference convenor Dr. Pratima Giri called for coordinated efforts involving healthcare, education, vocational services and policymakers, while Dr. Ramesh Konanki stressed the importance of early identification and family-centred care to help autistic individuals achieve their full potential.