The number of autistic children is gradually increasing in China. However, there is not an accurate number due to the fact that the condition is often misdiagnosed.

Autism is a wide spectrum disorder, which means that no two autistic individuals display similar symptoms. It is a well-known fact that autistic people are greatly affected by loud noises, the intensity of lighting, ambient temperatures and strong smells. Is there a cure for autism? Unfortunately, the answer is no, but researchers are working on identifying its causes and attempting to come up with feasible measures to eliminate them.

The fundamental question should focus on the means of helping those who have the misfortunate to suffer from the disorder.

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work closely with autistic children for almost two years. I noticed that they are very special children who need a great deal of empathy and sympathy.

One must be very careful in approaching an autistic person. A sudden movement or unrequited touch may lead the autistic persons to go through an episode of panic and tantrum that could harm them physically.

When one is dealing with autistic people, one should avoid making them feel as abnormal individuals. To communicate with autistic persons, one must acquire a great deal of patience due to the fact that their brains process the information differently than those without the disorder.

I hope that we, all, without exception can acquire sufficient compassion to be sympathetic and empathetic toward autistic people and be generous enough to donate to their cause.

Thabet Hassan, via e-mail

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