Autism's Hidden Cultural Costs Felt by Latino Families
The hidden financial burdens of autism have been studied - data from a recent study by a University of Rochester-affiliated group suggest that household income per family with an autistic member is $6,200 per year lower on average - but some Latino families are feeling a hidden cultural burden of autism.
Six weeks ago, the Ortizes read in the local paper about a talk in Spanish for Latino parents of children with autism held at the library in downtown Framingham (MA).
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They were disappointed when they realized they were the only ones who attended the talk on April 5.
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Nearly 1.5 million Americans have ASD, but nobody knows how many are Latinos. Experts said that as the Latino population keeps growing, the condition may be more prevalent among them in years to come. Experts also said Latino children with autism tend to be diagnosed later than non-Hispanic children.
Advocates already report an increasing demand for information in Spanish about ASD, but if the language barrier can be overcome with Spanish pages in their Web sites and more Spanish-speaking workers, cultural barriers continue to be challenging.
"In other cultures, there is shame involved with special education needs and a stigma associated with autism, and some families are hesitant to ask for help," said Jennifer Repella, director of programs for the Maryland-based Autism Society of America. "It has to happen both ways. Organizations should be aware that the need is out there and provide information, but families need to act, call and ask for help."
