CDC estimates 1 in 88 children in U.S. identified as having an autism spectrum disorder
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in 88 children in the United States has been identified as having an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to a new study that looked at data from 14 communities. Autism spectrum disorders are almost five times more common among boys than girls – with 1 in 54 boys identified.
Track your child’s development and act early if you have a concern.
More children than ever before are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Like the many families living with ASDs, CDC considers ASDs an important public health concern. CDC is committed to continuing to provide essential data on ASDs, search for risk factors and causes, and develop resources that help identify children with ASDs as early as possible.
The “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program aims to improve early identification of children with autism and other developmental disabilities so children and families can get the services and supports they need as early as possible.
From birth to 5 years, children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak and act. A delay in any of these areas could be a sign of an ASD or other developmental disabilities.
CDC provides free materials to help parents and early educators track young children’s developmental milestones, tips for encouraging children’s growth and development, and information about what to do if there’s a concern about a child’s development. There are also free resources for health professionals.
National, state and local programs that serve parents of young children can add “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” materials to their resources for parents. Programs can customize CDC’s materials with their own contact information and distribute them to the populations they serve.
For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/ActEarly and www.cdc.gov/Autism or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.
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