Autism Data 2020
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on 3/26/20 that the estimated prevalence of children in the U.S. with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has again increased.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center continues to take part in the study to determine the current prevalence of ASD through a grant from the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. Principal investigators from the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center's (VKC) Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders (TRIAD) found:
United States 2020
- 1 in 54 children—An increase from 1 in 59, the 2018 CDC estimate
- 1 in 34 boys—Boys with ASD outnumber girls 4 to 1
- 1 in 64 children
- This is the second time Tennessee-specific data has been available.
- The data documented that ASD is extremely common in Tennessee.
- This study focused on an 11-county region surrounding Nashville.
- Of the 11 states in the CDC ADDM Network, Tennessee’s number was ranked 8 of 11 reporting states.
- Only 36% of children with ASD received a diagnosis before 3 years—highlighting the need for improved early detection initiatives.
To view the CDC’s report on autism in Tennessee, click here.
“These new numbers show that the important work of early intervention is needed now more than ever. Autism is a condition we are continuing to learn more about and thanks to great partners around the state, not only are we diagnosing Autism faster but we are helping our children sooner through different therapy approaches. Missing one child is too many but I am encouraged by the strides children with Autism are making, as well as, the dedication of so many healthcare and research professionals.”
– DIDD Commissioner Brad Turner
How TRIAD addresses the needs of Tennessee children with ASD and their families
Kingston, 2, is thriving with the help of TRIAD’s telemedicine initiative and services
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