World Autism Awareness Day observance

The World Autism Awareness Day was observed today 02 April at Beth-Meka’e Community Hospital under the theme “Assistive Technology for Active Participation”.

Asmara, 02 April 2019- The World Autism Awareness Day was observed today 02 April at Beth-Meka’e Community Hospital under the theme “Assistive Technology for Active Participation”.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the National Association of Autism and Down Syndrome, Let. Col. Berhane Bokretsion said that ‘Autism’ is a complicated disability hard to identify and monitor even at a national level. He also pointed out that the Association in cooperation with the Ministry of Health has come to agreement to establish Beth-Meka’e Community Hospital as a center for patients with Autism and Down Syndrome, in addition to the health services it provides.

Indicating that the awareness of the public on Autism is encouraging, Let. Col. Berhane called for the enhanced support to victims by families, community and other concerned bodies.

Commending the initiative parents are undertaking, Dr. Andeberhan Tesfatsion, Acting Director General of Public Health in the Ministry of Health, on his part expressed the Ministry’s readiness to support the activities of the National Association of Autism and Down Syndrome.

According to the World Health Organization, one out of 160 children are born with Autism, and as of yet the causes and treatment of Autism are unknown.