Today, it is estimated that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.
As the incidence of autism continues to increase, The Children’s Regional Hospital at Cooper is teaming up with Autism Speaks to promote Autism Awareness Month by illuminating the hospital blue. During April 1 and April 2, blue lighting will be seen in front of Cooper’s Pavilion in support of individuals with autism and their families.
“Cooper is proud to be a part of such an important cause,” said Michael H. Goodman, MD, Chief, Department of Pediatrics. “By illuminating the hospital blue on the evening of April 1 and April 2, we hope to join the thousands of others involved in shining a light on autism as a growing health concern.”
The Children’s Regional Hospital at Cooper provides comprehensive pediatric services for children and adolescents with autism. Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders including Asperger’s Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Many parents and professionals refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders. The Pediatric Autism Program located at Cooper Neurological Institute (CNI) is a multidisciplinary treatment and research center designed for the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
“It is important to remember that the term ‘autism’ now includes a wider spectrum of children of all ages with developmental disorders and symptoms, making it even more difficult to diagnose,” continued Dr. Goodman. “Neurologists working in The Pediatric Autism Program at Cooper are using the best scientific evidence available today to decipher the genetic and environmental components associated with autism in order to determine the best treatment options for each child.”
Autism Speaks is one of the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organizations, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, and treatments for autism. By working with organizations like Cooper to raise awareness, Autism Speaks hopes to one day find a cure.
For more information about The Pediatric Autism Program at Cooper visit cooperhealth.org.