Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are complex neurological disorders that affect individuals in the areas of social interaction and communication. Autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in at least 1 in 110 individuals. Autism is referred to as a spectrum disorder – meaning the symptoms can occur in any combination and with varying degrees of severity.

The characteristic behaviors of ASD may or may not be apparent in infancy, but usually become obvious during early childhood (24 months to 6 years). ASD affects individuals in every country and region of the world and knows no racial, ethnic, nor economic boundaries.

Overview of Autism
Autism is a neurobiological disorder.  While individuals with autism have different skills and abilities, they typically experience challenges in four main areas:

• Challenges communicating with others: verbal and nonverbal

  • Some may not speak

  • Some may speak using only one to two-word phrases

  • Some may engage in conversations but may have difficulty talking about a range of topics.

• Difficulty understanding language and reasoning

• Challenges socializing and developing friendships

• Challenging behavior

Important Facts about Autism
While no one knows what causes autism, there are some general facts that are known about autism.

• Autism is considered a spectrum disorder which means that some individuals will display significant learning and behavioral challenges, while others may only be mildly affected by the disability.

• Autism is diagnosed based on a child’s behavior and skills.  There is no genetic marker for autism.

• According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders is 1 in every 110 children; 1 in 70 boys – in PA ( 1 in 91 children)

• Autism is found throughout the world, in families of all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

• The cause of autism is not known. 

• About 1/3 of all individuals with autism develop seizures in adolescence.

• Individuals with autism live a normal life span.

• Autism tends to run in families.  If a family has a child with autism, they have a 3-5% chance of having another child with autism.

• Individuals with autism can improve significantly with intensive well designed educational, behavioral, speech, and sensory based programs.

What are the signs?
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.

Here are some signs to look for in the children in your life:

• Lack of or delay in spoken language

• Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)

• Little or no eye contact

• Lack of interest in peer relationships

• Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play

• Persistent fixation on parts of objects