Autism is a brain development disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. In most cases, these signs all begin before a child is three years old. The number of people known to have autism has increased dramatically since the 1980s. Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child's life. The signs usually develop gradually, but some autistic children first develop more normally and then regress. Although early behavioral or cognitive intervention can help autistic children gain self-care, social, and communication skills, there is no known cure. Many people with autism will require life long assistance. 


Here are a few Autism Facts:

-  Estimated prevalence 1 in 110 children have an autism spectrum disorder
-  67 children are diagnosed per day
-  1 in 70 boys is on the autism spectrum
-   57% increas in just 4 years
-  A new case is diagnosed almost every 20 minutes
-  More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined
-  Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
-  Autism costs the nation over $35 billion per year, a figure expected to significantly increase in the next decade
-  Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases
-  There is no medical detection or cure for autism