Autism is a developmental neurological spectrum disorder that affects 1 out of 54 individuals.
About 1 percent of the world population has autism spectrum disorder. (CDC, 2014)
Prevalence in the United States is estimated at 1 in 58 births. (CDC, 2020)
More than 3.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder. (Buescher et al., 2014)
Prevalence of autism in U.S. children increased by 119.4 percent from 2000 (1 in 150) to 2010 (1 in 68). (CDC, 2014) Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability. (CDC, 2008)
Prevalence has increased by 6-15 percent each year from 2002 to 2010. (Based on biennial numbers from the CDC)
Autism is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.
· Autism affects socialization, communication, and the way a person perceives the world around them.
· Some people diagnosed with autism have a very difficult time interacting with others and prefer to be alone.
· They may exhibit several mannerisms; such as rocking, finger flicking, hand slapping, inappropriate screaming, crying and laughing.
· Autism also affects sensory integration. Loud noises, bright lights, certain foods, and certain textures of clothing are not tolerated by some individuals diagnosed with Autism.
· Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects males in a 4 to 1 ratio. The cause is not known and up to now, there is no known cure.