Updated: Jun 20, 2020
Quick Facts to Know About Autism
Autism is a bio-neurological developmental disability usually appearing before the age of three. (https://nationalautismassociation.org/)
Autism affects communication skills, social interaction and cognitive skills.
According to the CDC, 1 in 54 children has been identified with autism (ASD) (https://www.cdc.gov/)
Boys are 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls.
People on the spectrum often suffer from co-morbid conditions such as ADHD, digestive disorders, epilepsy, sensory integration, feeding issues, speech issues, OCD, and many other conditions.
Children who have a sibling with ASD are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with ASD.
There is no cure for autism. Early intervention and treatment can help to improve symptoms.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is one of the fastest growing developmental disorders in the US. ASD is more common than childhood cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. (https://www.massgeneral.org/children)
People with autism spectrum disorder often care deeply (empathize) but lack the ability to spontaneously respond to social interactions.
Children born to older parents have a larger risk of ASD.
Autism varies from person to person. No two are alike.
The mortality rate of those with autism is twice as high as the general population.
Children with autism do progress at their own speed. The key is early intervention.
Most scientists agree that genes are one of the risk factors for a person to be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
All racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups are effected by autism.
About 50,000 individuals with autism graduate every year from high school.
It is estimated that 35% of autistic young adults have not held a job after high school or continued into further education.
The U.S. cost of autism over the lifespan is about $2.4 million for a person with an intellectual disability, or $1.4 million for a person without intellectual disability. (https://www.autism-society.org/)
Many people with Autism Spectrum Disorder have restricted interests and repetitive behaviors.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be screened for autism. (https://www.nimh.nih.gov/)