A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the United States continues to rise. The report, which was published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), found that one in 36 (2.8%) 8-year-old children have been identified with ASD. This is up from the previous 2018 estimate that found a prevalence of 1 in 44 (2.3%).
The report also found that boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls. The reasons for the increase in autism prevalence are not fully understood, but experts believe that a combination of factors, including genetics and environmental factors, may be contributing.
The rise in autism prevalence has implications for families, schools, and healthcare providers. Families of children with autism may need more support to help their children reach their full potential. Schools may need to make accommodations for students with autism, and healthcare providers may need to be better trained to diagnose and treat autism.
The CDC report is a reminder that autism is a serious public health issue. However, it is also important to remember that there are many resources available to help families and individuals with autism. With early intervention and support, people with autism can live happy and fulfilling lives.
Here are some of the key findings from the report:
- The prevalence of ASD has increased from 1 in 44 in 2018 to 1 in 36 in 2023.
- Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls.
- The increase in autism prevalence is seen across all racial and ethnic groups.
- The reasons for the increase in autism prevalence are not fully understood, but experts believe that a combination of factors, including genetics and environmental factors, may be contributing.
The report’s findings have implications for families, schools, and healthcare providers.
- Families of children with autism may need more support to help their children reach their full potential.
- Schools may need to make accommodations for students with autism.
- Healthcare providers may need to be better trained to diagnose and treat autism.
The CDC report is a reminder that autism is a serious public health issue.
However, it is also important to remember that there are many resources available to help families and individuals with autism. With early intervention and support, people with autism can live happy and fulfilling lives.
If you are concerned that your child may have autism, please talk to your doctor.
