Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first two years of
life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, impacting
development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults
on the autism spectrum typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social
interactions, and leisure or play activities.

The CDC states that Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities
that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. People with ASDs
handle information in their brain differently than other people.
ASD’s are “spectrum disorders.” That means ASDs affect each person in different ways, and can
range from very mild to severe. People with ASDs share some similar symptoms, such as problems
with social interaction. But there are differences in when the symptoms start, how severe
they are, and the exact nature of the symptoms.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention As the name "autism spectrum
disorders" suggests, ASDs cover a wide range of behaviors and abilities. People who have
an ASD, like all people, are very different in how they act and what they can do. No two people
with ASDs will have the same symptoms.

Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders, affecting an estimated 1
in 150 births (Centers for Disease Control Prevention, 2007). Roughly translated, this means as
many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism. Recent studies
indicate that the incidence of Autism may be as high as 1 in 100.

The U.S. Department of Education and other governmental agencies statistics state that autism
is growing at a startling rate of 10-17 percent per year. At this rate, the Autism Society estimates
that the prevalence of autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade.

Autism knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries; family income levels; lifestyle choices; or
educational levels, and can affect any family and any child. And although the overall incidence of
autism is consistent around the globe, it is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls.

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