What’s Causing Autism Rates to Rise?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States. Today, it’s estimated that 1 in 36 eight-year-olds have autism compared to 1 in 150 in 2000. The big question is, what’s causing the number of autism cases to rise?

Researchers believe that the increase is related to a combination of factors, including changes in how autism is diagnosed, more children being screened and a greater awareness of autism in our society.

The Definition of Autism is Expanding

Since the term autism was first introduced 80 years ago, doctors have been getting better at identifying the differences between autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. In fact, according to Scientific American, as cases of autism have increased, the number of people being diagnosed with intellectual disabilities has decreased.

Another aspect that has changed over the years is the diagnostic criteria. For example, autism, Asperger’s syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder were once considered three separate conditions. In 2013, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders folded all of those conditions under the term autism spectrum disorder (ASD).Because the definition of autism has expanded to include a broader group of people, more individuals are naturally being diagnosed with autism today than a decade ago just by definition.

Early Screening is Catching More Cases

Since 2006, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that all children – not only those with symptoms – be screened for autism during their 18 and 24-month well-child visits.As a result, children who may have been overlooked previously, like those with mild cases of autism, are now being diagnosed. Similarly, widespread screening and better access to services have led to higher numbers of Black, Hispanic, Asian and Pacific Islander children being diagnosed with autism than in the past.

By identifying autism and other developmental disabilities in children earlier, families can get the therapy and services they need sooner. This can have a big impact on children’s ability to learn and gives them the best chance at a successful future.

Awareness of Autism is Growing

Up until the 1980s, people with autism were often institutionalized or out of the public’s view.Now, individuals with autism actively participate in their communities, talk about their lives and star in shows like “Love on the Spectrum,” just to name a few examples of greater inclusion. There are also individuals and organizations across the country that are working hard to raise awareness and acceptance of autism.

Because of all these powerful changes, people are beginning to have a deeper understanding of this condition. So, now if parents suspect that their child is showing some signs and symptoms associated with autism, they are more likely to seek out a diagnosis. Some families may also be encouraged to get a diagnosis for their child, even if they’re on the borderline, to ensure they receive special education services and accommodations to help them do well in school.

While our understanding of autism continues to improve every year, more research is still needed to determine exactly why the rates are continuing to climb. If you think your child might have autism, consider reaching out to a trusted professional to get them screened. With an autism diagnosis, your child and family can get access to a wide range of resources, tools and support to help improve the quality of your day-to-day life and the child’s wellbeing.