Why in news? On 2nd April every year we observe the World Autism Awareness Day to spread information about Autism Spectrum Disorder and help the global ASD population lead a healthy social life.

Highlights:

What is Autism?

• Autism spectrum disorder(ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the communication, social interaction, and behaviour of an individual.
• It is characterised by repetitive behaviours, communication difficulties and problems with social interaction. Autism affects people of all ages, races and ethnicities.
• These issues can be tackled successfully if ASD is detected at a young age and thereof managed-well.

What is the history ?

• The United Nations General Assembly in 2007 passed a resolution to adopt April 02 as World Autism Awareness Day.
• It recognised the need to create and raise awareness about autism which affects individuals’ social interaction, communication, and behaviour.
• The first World Autism Awareness Day was observed on April 2, 2008.
• The UN Department Of Global Communication and Department Of Economic and Social Affairs is the main organization responsible for shaping this day.
• It aims to help people detect the signs of autism in children at an early age and to fight the discrimination faced by people on the spectrum.

What is the theme for the year ?

• This year the theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2023 is “Transforming the narrative: Contributions at home, at work, in the arts and in policymaking.
• According to United Nations, the 2023 World Autism Awareness Day observance is organised by the United Nations Department of Global Communications and Department of Economic and Social Affairs, in collaboration with the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION), an organisation established and run by neurodivergent people for neurodivergent people and allies.