Zubair Qureshi
Experts and senior doctors at the Shifaa International Hospital (SIH) have said early diagnosis, intervention and treatment can work wonders for children with autism as it can help them live a better and improved life Like the rest of the world, Autism Awareness Day is also being celebrated in Pakistan today (April 2) and the SIH held an interactive awareness session to promote autism awareness and autism acceptance.
Faiza Badar, Manager Rehabilitation Department, Shifa International Hospital (SIH) shared that management of autism depends on timely diagnosis, early intervention, and use of a multi-disciplinary approach which includes Behavior Therapy, Speech-Language Therapy, Sensory Integration & Occupational Therapy.
Haleema Sadia, an Autism Specialist at Shifa Int. Hospital said that symptoms of autism may include intense focus on one item, unresponsiveness, lack of understanding social cues (like the tone of voice or body language), repetitive movements, or self-abusive behavior like head-banging.
Kashif Khan, Associate General Manager Rehabilitation Department affirmed that in the future, Shifa Int.
Hospital plans to expand ASD services to effectively meet the increasing need of people with an autism spectrum disorder.
Speaking about autism, Taimoor Shah, The Chief Operating Officer, Shifa International Hospital stated that we must play our role in enabling persons with autism spectrum disorder to live an independent and meaningful life and we need to work on promoting equality, equity, and inclusion because like everyone else, people with autism too are entitled to make decisions for their lives under their own will and preferences.
