A pharmacist, Charles Dagogot, has advised parents to use Hovid DHA drugs for proper brain development in children with autism.

Mr Dagogot, an official of Pharmatex Nigeria Limited disclosed this during a paper presentation on Saturday as part of the activities to mark World Autism Day at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Barnawa-Kaduna.

Hovid DHA is an emulsion that is essential for children.

Known as ‘Docosahexaenoic Acid,’ DHA is a vital component found in the brain and retina of the eyes.

Mr Dagogot said that the daily intake of Hovid DHA would improve learning ability and memory for children living with autism.

‘‘Hovid DHA helps in brain development (in utero and after birth), improves speech and language function, improves memory and also improves mood and behaviour. DHA is the most abundant Omega 3 FA in the brain and retina.DHA constitutes nine per cent of total brain FA in terms of birth and continues to increase by 15 per cent of total brain FA until age 20.DHA deficiency is associated with cognitive decline and increased neural cell death,” the medical expert added.

Mr Dagogot added that results have shown that increased red blood cell levels of DHA are associated with improved cognitive performance.

According to him, DHA is taken up by the brain in preference to other fatty acids and is necessary for optimum development of the brain and vision, especially eyesight.

Mr Dagogot added that the healthy fat that is incorporated into the brain supports the smooth transmission of messages from neuron to neuron.

In her remarks, Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Aishatu Yusha’u-Armiya’u, described autistic children as having special gifts.

She said that this year’s theme gave her joy, adding, “Because children with autism are colourful and have things to offer. These children are unique and have things to offer; among them are the best mathematicians, statisticians and graphic designers. They are special children and have special gifts. Managing them is difficult but we have to pick out the best in them and utilise them. It is our responsibility to pick out what they have, especially in sciences and help them out.”

Ms Yusha’u-Armiya’u said that early-age detection was better as an intervention would be quicker.

She said, “If they can bring them to the hospital before 10 years, the intervention will be quick and we can try to harness their potential.”

(NAN)