90.3 WCPN: HealthWatch April 2006

April 2006

National Autism Awareness Month

William Sommer (American, 1867-1949), Startled Boy, c. 1925-30, watercolor with pen and black ink, 38.1 x 28.2 cm., Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Joseph M. Erdelac, 2004.46

Autism is a complex brain disorder that causes a range of developmental problems. The most obvious signs include impaired communication and socialization, typically evident by age 3 and continuing through life.

Prevalence of Autism
Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders, affecting an estimated 1 in 166 births (Centers for Disease Control Prevention, 2004). Roughly translated, this means as many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism. And this number is on the rise.

Based on statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and other governmental agencies, autism is growing at a startling rate of 10-17 percent per year. At this rate, the ASA estimates that the prevalence of autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade.

Autism knows no racial, ethnic, social boundaries, family income, lifestyle, or educational levels and can affect any family, and any child.

And although the overall incidence of autism is consistent around the globe, it is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls.

The cause of this disorder isn't clear, however scientists believe genetics plays a role. There's no cure, but autism is a treatable condition. Children with autism benefit from arly individualized, intensive interventions.

State and Local Resources

National Resources