CDC news

autism rates WAY up
April 10, 2012
CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just reported that the estimated rate of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is 1 in 88 children. In addition, five boys are diagnosed for every girl. Rates have had large increases among Hispanic and Black children. Diagnosis from younger ages has also increased. From the executive summary, "We are finding that more children than ever before are being diagnosed with ASDs and they are not being diagnosed as early as they could be. The emotional and financial tolls on families and communities are staggering and therapies can cost thousands of dollars. We recognize that families are frustrated and want answers now. We will continue working to provide essential data on ASDs, to understand the recent increase and why some children are more likely to be identified than others, and to improve early identification in hopes that all children have the opportunity to thrive." Why is the rate rising?  Is it truly an increase, or are there just more diagnoses? There are still many unanswered questions, but one thing the experts are unanimous about is that early detection is the key to the best outcomes.