"To say we understand autism is such a complex discussion because the continuum is so varied." - Lorraine Sunstrum-Mann, Grandview Children's Centre
DURHAM -- Just a few years ago autism was a dirty word, something parents refused to utter unless confronted with a definitive diagnosis. Now parents are actively seeking the diagnosis in order to access crucial government-funded services for their families.
Dr. Carolyn Hunt, medical director at Grandview Children's Centre, which provides publicly-funded autism assessments and therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder, is one of three developmental pediatricians serving Durham.
There is currently no medical test that can diagnose ASD. Instead, specially trained medical professionals, including developmental pediatricians and psychologists, can conduct autism-focused behavioural analysis.
Dr. Hunt says she has seen a 10-per cent increase in assessment referrals every year for the last five years, bringing the total from about 200 referrals annually to 350. Currently families wait about six months for an assessment at Grandview.
"There's been a huge shift in parents' reactions and understanding of autism coming in," Dr. Hunt said.
"Fifteen years ago I was often the first one bringing up the idea; now the majority of cases I see are families coming to me saying 'we think it's autism.'
"The biggest issue for any family with an autism diagnosis is wait lists," Dr. Hunt said, citing government-funded therapy services provided by Grandview and Kinark Child and Youth Services. "It's not until a diagnosis is done that they are eligible to be placed on wait lists."
The increasing awareness is indicative of the rising profile of ASD, which is estimated to affect about one in 94 people.
A neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, ASD typically appears before a child turns three years old. It can cause difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and leisure or play activities.
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Durham tackles autism at home