“Children and adults with autism exhibit atypical, repetitive behaviors and deficits in social and communication skills. Autism is usually diagnosed during the first three years of life and is four to five times more prevalent in boys than in girls. It knows no racial, ethnic or social boundaries.
Autism, Asperger’s Disorder and PDD-NOS are commonly referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorders or ASDs. This label conveys the continuum of ability levels, but is not itself an official diagnosis. Autism spectrum disorders affect approximately 1 in 150 individuals.”1
1. Fombonne, E. (2005). The changing epidemiology of Autism. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 18, 281-294.
On February 9, 2007 the CDC issued the most current information on the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders in the United States. 14 states were studied in 2000 and 2002, the results found an average prevalence rate to be 1 in every 152 children. Though, the prevalence in New Jersey was higher which indicated a rate of 1 in every 94 children.
Visit this CDC site for further info on Autism.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/
Autism Causes ?
Right now, the cause of autism is not known. Current research suggests that autism could be a genetic disorder that could be influenced by environmental factors. No proven research to date supports the thinking that autism is caused by psychological factors in the child’s environment.
Visit www.exploringautism.org for further info
Diagnosing Autism ?
Usually parents suspect a problem when their child does not exhibit the typical developmental milestones. Individuals with autism may have age-appropriate skills in one area and be delayed or have skill deficits in other areas. As an example, an Autistic child may not be able to point to objects or initiate saying “Hi” but may be able to play a simple video game easily. Medical tests to accurately diagnose autism are not yet available. The diagnosis of ASD is based upon behavior observations and skill development levels of the child. An interdisciplinary team (that may include a psychologist, developmental pediatrician, neurologist, speech/language therapist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, learning consultant, social worker etc) could assist in the diagnosis process and subsequent therapy needs. Visit this website for further info to learn the signs of Autism and act early. http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/actearly/
Can autism be treated?
Early diagnosis and appropriate intervention are very important. Research has indicated that Autistic individuals do respond well to very structured, highly specialized education programs. Therapeutic interventions utilizing well-researched methods/principles, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), are proven to be effective in assisting children and adults to learn new skills and work towards their full capacity potential. Visit these sites to learn more about Applied Behavior Analysis
Remember, Autism just does not affect children, it also affects adults too.
They all need help.
Autism is a life long disability. There is currently NO known cure.
What can you do to help the Autism cause?
- be knowledgeable about Autism
- send donations to support Autism organizations and agencies
- show support for Government Autism Initiatives
- volunteer for Autism organizations and agencies that serve Autism clients
- get a job working with clients who have Autism, there is always a need to fill positions
- make others aware about Autism, be an advocate for children and adults with Autism
