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Light it Up Blue at UKZN

2012/04/02 03:51:59 PM

Staff members in the College of Health Sciences at UKZN were inspired to support the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, Autism Speaks, for its annual “Light It Up Blue” initiative which celebrates World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) on April 2.

 

A unique global initiative, Light It Up Blue raises awareness about the growing public health concern that is autism. Iconic landmarks around the world 'Light It Up Blue' to show their support on this day.

 

In July 2005, Autism South Africa reported there were potentially 270 000 children under the age of six affected by autism in the country.

 

Autism Speaks coins Autism as a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders - autism spectrum disorders - caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterised, in varying degrees, by social and behavioural challenges, as well as repetitive behaviour.

 

Although students were away on their Easter vacation, staff members in the College said it is still very important to raise awareness and light it up blue.