3 Let’s talk about autism Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Some people with autism have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes are not yet known. Scientists believe there are multiple causes of ASD that act together to change the most common ways people develop. We still have much to learn about these causes and how they impact individuals with ASD. People with ASD are just like everyone else. There is often nothing about how they look that sets them apart from other people. They feel the same emotions but show them differently. People with autism may behave, communicate, interact, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The abilities of people with autism can vary significantly. For example, some people with ASD may have advanced conversation skills, whereas others may be nonverbal. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others can work and live with little to no support. Diagnosing autism can be difficult because there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose ASD. Doctors look at the child’s developmental history and behavior for diagnosis. It can be detected at any age, even as infants, but some people are not diagnosed until they are adolescents or adults. It is important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible to ensure the individual receives the services and support needed. Please call your Primary Care Provider (PCP) to schedule an appointment if you would like to have your child evaluated. Scholarship opportunities for farmworker students For many years, the National Center for Farmworker Health (NCFH) has invested in providing annual scholarships to farmworkers. This is made possible through the sale of commemorative artwork posters. The main goal is to assist farmworkers in pursuing their education goals, mainly in health care. If you are interested in NCFH scholarships, you can visit their website at ncfh.org/scholarships.html or you can call El Paso Health. El Paso Health has special Medicaid services for farmworker children. To help you receive these services, please call us at 1-877-532-3778, Ext. 1075. We will help you get the medical services your children need. wellness
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