Zanco Journal of Human Sciences

The diagnosis and treatment of Autism in Iraq occurs in multiple settings and is provided by variety of health professionals. Knowledge about Autism is low among healthcare providers and the presence of inaccurate and outdated beliefs regarding this disorder may late the detection and timely referral for interventions. A Descriptive analytical study was carried out from March 1, 2014 to May 24, 2014 in order to assess the Knowledge of Healthcare Providers about Childhood Autism and to determine the levels of knowledge among them. A purposive (non-probability) sample of one hundred healthcare providers (50 physician and 50 nurses). Data was collected through the use of Knowledge about childhood autism (KCA) questionnaire that completed and collected immediately from the respondents upon administration to achieve the objectives of the study, the questionnaire consisted of two parts; the first part is concerned with the demographic characteristics of the healthcare providers and; the second part consists of eighteen items described the Knowledge about childhood Autism among healthcare providers. The validity of the questionnaire was obtained through a panel of experts and the reliability was achieved through the application of alpha Correlation coefficient (r=0.97) which was statistically acceptable. Data was analyzed through the application of the descriptive statistical analysis (frequency, percentage, mean, and mean of score). The results of this study indicate that the total mean of score among Physicians on Knowledge Questionnaire was (9.80) and the total mean of score among Nurses on Knowledge Questionnaire was (5.52) out of 18 possible. In conclusion the mean of scores reflect Physicians were equipped with relatively more knowledge about childhood autism than Nurses.

Through a historical evolution of the symptoms, starting with the first observations, this paper attempts to give a thorough understanding of the symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The social difficulties, communication problems, and repetitive activities associated with ASD were often thought to be superficial symptoms. Difficulties in reading social cues and building connections with others were noted as critical social challenges. Delays in speech development and nonliteral language deficits were markers of communication problems. Repetitive activities have been shown to be more indicative of ASD symptoms than core traits. The intricacy of these symptoms and their influence on individuals identified as having ASD have come to light as this field's understanding has grown. The present, improved understanding of the condition, which permits the administration of targeted drugs and more individualized therapy, is based on this prior information.
The present research on the symptoms of ASD is examined in this paper, which also highlights the shift from previous viewpoints to a more inclusive and thorough technique. The disorder known as a variety of symptoms characterizes ASD. Present-day viewpoints recognise that social challenges, communication breakdowns, and repetitive habits are unique to every person diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Social and communication challenges have a significant impact on a person's ability to understand nonverbal cues, maintain social connections, and express emotions clearly. Repetitive actions are becoming identified as self-regulation methods, even though genuine interests are typically seen as desirable assets. Current research suggests that more inclusion and assistance for individuals with ASD may be possible in the future due to the development of specialist treatments and support networks.
It may be possible to increase the current knowledge of ASD by looking at its neurological and genetic foundations. This might result in the creation of more focused therapeutic approaches. It is suggested that a focused approach that emphasizes precision medicine and early intervention would improve outcomes for people with ASD and customize therapy to fit each patient's unique profile. Advancements in diagnostic tools that use cutting-edge technologies, such as genetic analysis and neuroimaging, will enable a more accurate and rapid diagnosis. Specialized treatment techniques and support networks should be created in the future to cater to the distinctive needs and skills of people with autism spectrum disorder. The above developments have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for people with ASD by providing personalized, effective, and accurate therapies that are tailored to their specific needs and abilities.