National Autism Awareness Month
April 2006

About
What is Autism
How Common is it?
More Information

What is Autism Awareness Month?

National Autism Awareness Month was established in 1972 by the Autism Society of America (ASA). The observance provides an opportunity for the ASA, its State chapters, and others in the autism community to educate the public about this disorder. The high rate of autism among all races, ethnicities, and social groups points to a greater need for education, particularly with regard to the early diagnosis of this complex developmental disorder.
Back to top

What is autism?

Autism, also called autistic disorder, is the result of a neurological disorder that typically appears in early childhood, usually before age 3. Autism prevents children and adolescents from interacting normally with other people and affects almost every aspect of social and psychological development. While children with autism share some common signs, autism is a disorder that affects each individual differently and varies in intensity from mild to severe.
Back to top

How common is autism?

Studies estimate that as many as 1 in 500 to 1 in 166 children have autism or a related condition (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2005). Autism is the second most common serious developmental disability after mental retardation/intellectual impairment, but it is still less common than other conditions that affect child development, such as speech and language impairments, learning disabilities, and attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2005).
Back to top

Where can I get more information?