Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause of autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.
In March 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report. The report concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 88 births in the United States and almost 1 in 54 boys. The spotlight shown on autism as a result of the prevalence increase opens opportunities for the nation to consider how to serve these families facing a lifetime of supports for their children.
Know the Signs: Early Identification Can Change Lives
Autism is treatable. Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes.
Here are some signs to look for in the children in your life:
· Lack of or delay in spoken language
· Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)
· Little or no eye contact
· Lack of interest in peer relationships
· Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
· Persistent fixation on parts of objects
Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the U.S. Over 1.5 million individuals in the United States have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The diagnosis rate for autism is rising 10-17% each year. Males are 4 times more likely than females to be diagnosed with autism. The symptoms and characteristics of autism can present themselves in a wide variety of combinations, from mild to severe.
The characterstic behaviors of ASD may or may not be apparent in infancy (18 to 24 months), but usually become obvious during early childhood (24 months to 6 years). Autism affects individuals in every country and region of the world and knows no racial, ethnic, nor economic boundaries.
Early intervention can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with autism.
