A recent study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put the incidence of autism at 1 in 150 children – the kind of prevalence that is sure to get a lot of nervous attention. Parents of young children must keep a close lookout for symptoms, because early intervention can be an enormous benefit.
Autism is a mysterious developmental disability caused by a problem with the brain. Those affected may have trouble communicating, adapting to change or may repeat actions over and over again.
Over the last few decades, the nation’s autism rate has been creeping up. The causes of autism are not known, and medical experts also don’t understand the reasons for the increase.
We do know the symptoms of autism can be devastating and the sooner children are diagnosed and treated, the better their chances to reach their potential.
Some, particularly those who have milder cases such as Asperger’s syndrome, a disorder counted among the autism spectrum, have gone on to notable achievements. Vernon Lomax Smith is an economist at George Mason University, and a Nobel laureate, has Asperger’s. Craig Nicholls, lead singer and songwriter for Australian rock group The Vines, also has Asperger’s, as does anthropologist Dawn Prince-Hughes.
The CDC analysis found diagnostic delays were common, with an average 18 months elapsing between the time parents first noticed symptoms and a formal diagnosis. Autism and related disorders generally are evident by age 3. There are a wide range of associated behaviors. Some autistic children appear to be unaware when people talk to them, but respond to other sounds. Others avoid eye contact and want to be alone. Some don’t want to be cuddled.
Parents who suspect their children might have autism should seek out a developmental pediatrician. In the U.S., less than half the children with autism are diagnosed before starting school. This is precious time lost. Early intervention involves intensive teaching of skills so children can appropriately interact with their surroundings.
In the U.S., about 560,000 people under the age of 21 have autism or a related disorder, according to the CDC study. In Colorado, the rate is slightly lower than the national average. Even so, there are more than 10,000 Coloradans of all ages affected, according to the Autism Society of Colorado.
The Combating Autism Act of 2006 was adopted by the last Congress, providing $945 million over five years for expanded research. It creates a screening program in all 50 states for early detection.
It is becoming increasingly apparent that such measures are necessary to unravel the secrets of this confounding disorder and improve the lives of those it affects.
