CDC director Dr. Julie Gerberding said, "We can't tell if there is a true increase in ASDs or if the changes are the result of our better studies. We do know that these disorders are affecting too many children."
ASDs are developmental disorders with symptoms of social and communicative impairments as well as unusual behaviors and interests. The ones in this study included autistic disorder, Asperger Syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder/not otherwise specified.
This new study (completed in 2002) if the largest one ever. It includes about 10% of 8-year-olds from 14 states. A previous study done in 2000 included 4.5% of 8-year-olds in six states.
The new results indicate that 6.6 out of every 1000 children have an ASD. This translates to about one in every 150.
Lee Grossman, president and CEO of the Autism Society of America, commented, "Finally, we can end the debate on the prevalence of autism in our nation and focus on getting the services and supports the families need...Autism is a treatable lifelong condition that affects tens of millions of Americans today. It is time to aggressively address this national health crisis."
Posted By: Aspen Education Group
