Introduction
Autism spectrum disorder is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause of autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.
Some of the behaviors associated with autism include delayed learning of language; difficulty making eye contact or holding a conversation; difficulty with executive functioning, which relates to reasoning and planning; narrow, intense interests; poor motor skills and sensory sensitivities. Again, a person on the spectrum might follow many of these behaviors or just a few, or many others besides. The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is applied based on analysis of all behaviors and their severity.
In March 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report. The report concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 68 births in the United States – nearly twice as great as the 2004 rate of 1 in 125 – and almost 1 in 54 boys. The spotlight shining on autism as a result has opened opportunities for the nation to consider how to serve families facing a lifetime of supports for their children.
In June 2014, researchers estimated the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism is as great as $2.4 million. The Autism Society estimates that the United States is facing almost $90 billion annually in costs for autism. (This figure includes research, insurance costs and non-covered expenses, Medicaid waivers for autism, educational spending, housing, transportation, employment, related therapeutic services and caregiver costs.)
Know the signs: Early identification can change lives
Autism is treatable. Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes. For more information on developmental milestones, visit the CDC's "Know the Signs. Act Early" site.
Here are some signs to look for in the children in your life:
Related Sites
Parents’ Stories – From Autism Diagnosis to Treatments, Hope and Recovery Description: Treating Autism aims to provide support and information to persons affected by ASD, their family members and professionals.
The Autism Research Institute Description: The Autism Research Institute's mission is to meet the needs of the global autism community through research, networking, education, and support for families and people of all ages on the autism spectrum.
Books
Tools
Parent Forums/Blogs
Some forums require you to sign in to Yahoo or Facebook to locate forum names.
Forum/Blog Name: Fearless Parents Description: Fearless Parent™ is the thinking person’s daily dose of unconventional, evidence-based news about health, wellness, green living, and holistic parenting choices.
Forum/Blog Name: Denise’s List Description: This is a Yahoo Group for Autism information of particular interest to the South Florida area. Members exchange information on news, therapies, resources, events, advocacy, on just about anything concerning autism.
Consumer Corner
Community Library
How Brain Scans Can Diagnose Autism With 97% Accuracy Description: New research shows that reading a person’s thoughts through an fMRI brain scan—might be able to diagnose autism.
Dr. Seneff Estimates by 2025 Half of U.S. Children will be Autistic Description: Article about estimates of future autism rates.