A Message from Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

World Autism Awareness Day

April 2, 2013

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a group of developmental disorders that is typically diagnosed in children before they reach the age of five. Often affecting them for the rest of their lives, ASD can cause difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as unusual repetitive behaviours. People living with these conditions are affected to varying degrees.

There remains no known "cure" for ASD, however many of the symptoms associated with these conditions are treatable. The earlier children with this disorder are diagnosed and able to receive appropriate help, the more likely they will achieve the best possible outcomes.

Much progress has been made in recent years to improve the areas of care and education for those living with ASD. Research continues to help us better understand the causes of these disorders and develop improved treatments and programs.

The Government of Canada continues to invest in activities to increase our knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder.  We are building an ASD surveillance system to identify and follow: the number of Canadians living with this disorder as well as the number of emerging cases; potential risk factors; the impact on Canadians living with ASD, their families and caregivers; and, how professionals might develop and improve programs and services for Canadians living with ASD.

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research has partnered with organizations in the autism community and has funded a research chair at York University dedicated to ASD treatment and care. The research team is working with those living with autism, their families and service providers to address the most important issues facing this community.

As Minister of Health, I encourage all Canadians to observe World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 by making an effort to learn more about autism spectrum disorders and to support people and families living with ASD.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Leona Aqlukkaq
Minister of Health