What is Autism?
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life.  This neurological disorder interferes with the normal development of the brain in areas that control verbal and nonverbal communication, social interaction and sensory development. 


How common is Autism?
Today, it is estimated that one in every 59 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Government statistics suggest the prevalence rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually. There is not established explanation for this increase, although improved diagnosis and environmental influences are two reasons often considered. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis three to four times more frequently. Current estimates are that in the United States alone, one out of 42 boys is diagnosed with autism.

 
 What causes Autism?
There is no known single cause for autism, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function.  Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in autistic versus non-autistic children.  Researchers are investigating a number of theories, including the link between heredity,  genetics and medical problems.  In many families there appears to be a pattern of autism or related disabilities, further supporting a genetic basis to the disorder.  While no one gene has been identified as causing autism, researchers are searching for irregular segments of genetic code that autistic children may have inherited.  It also appears that some children are born with a susceptibility to autism, but researchers have not yet identified a single "trigger" that causes autism to develop.

Whatever the cause, it is clear that children with autism and PDD are born with the disorder or born with the potential to develop it.  It is not caused by bad parenting.  Autism is not a mental illness.  Children with autism are not unruly kids who choose not to behave.  Furthermore, no known psychological factors in the development of the child have been shown to cause autism.

Resources: www.friendsofautism.org, www.autismspeaks.org, www.aheadwithautism.com