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Autism and Autism Resources Today, over 1.5 million Americans are affected by autism. The Center for Disease Control has determined that the prevalence rate for autism is 1 in 150. And in Virginia, almost 6,000 public school children between the ages of 5 and 22 were labeled as having an Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2005. In contrast, there were just over 1,500 public school students in Virginia with autism in 1998. |
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But what is autism? According to the Autism Society of America, Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. One should keep in mind however, that autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees — this is why early diagnosis is so crucial. By learning the signs, a child can begin benefiting from one of the many specialized intervention programs. Based on statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and other governmental agencies, autism is growing at a startling rate of 10-17 percent per year. At this rate, the ASA estimates that the prevalence of autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade. Autism knows no racial, ethnic, social boundaries, family income, lifestyle, 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. The Commonwealth Autism Service web site includes many sections to help families and the community better understand issues related to autism. We recommend your starting there to gather more information about autism. |
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