About Autism

Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe.

Some interesting facts about Autism:
* It is the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
* There is not medical detection or cure for autism
* Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases.
* 67 children are diagnosed per day

For more info go to: autismspeaks.org