Autism
Print This PageThe Centers for Disease Control recently increased their estimate of the frequency of autism in the United States to one in 110 children. This is a revision of a prior estimate in 2002 of one in 150. The frequency in New Jersey is believed to be higher. Autism is a developmental disorder in which effected children have impaired language, impaired social interactions, and restricted and repetitive behaviors.
The reasons for the increase in the frequency of the diagnosis of autism are not clear. There does appear to be a true increase in the number of children with autism. Other reasons may also contribute to the increase. The definition of the disorder has been greatly expanded over the years. We now recognize a spectrum of "autistic spectrum disorders." At one end is classical autism, in which children are severely affected. At the other end are children who are less severely affected and who may be relatively high functioning. Many children who at one time would have received other diagnoses are now diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorders.
Another reason for the increase in the diagnosis of autism is the increased knowledge and recognition of the disorder by physicians, teachers, therapists and parents. This has helped lead to earlier diagnoses.
The causes of autism are not completely understood. There is now convincing evidence that effected children have a genetic predisposition. It is also believed that an environmental exposure can trigger autism. There may be many factors. A national study presently underway aims to discover the causes of autism. This is essential if we are going to find effective treatments.