What is autism?

Autism is a complex neurological disorder evident by by three years of age. Today, 1 in 150 individuals in the United States is diagnosed with autism.

• Autism is more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.
• Autism occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups.
• Autism is four times more likely to be diagnosed in boys than girls.
• Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others.
• Autism symptoms can range from very mild to severe.
• Autism can be reliably diagnosed as early as one year of age.

What are the possible red flags for autism?

Children with an autism spectrum disorder might:

• Not play "pretend" games (pretend to "feed" a doll).
• Not point to objects to show interest (point at an airplane flying over).
• Not look at objects when another person points at them.
• Avoid eye contact and want to be alone.
• Appear to be unaware when others talk to them but respond to other sounds.
• Repeat or echo words or phrases said to them, or repeat words or phrases in place of normal language (echolalia).
• Have trouble expressing their needs using typical words or gestures.
• Repeat actions over and over again.
• Have trouble adapting to changes in routine.
• Have unusual reactions to the way things smell, taste, look, feel, or sound.
• Lose skills they once had (stop saying words they were once using).

What can I do if I think my child has autism?

If you or your doctor thinks there could be a problem, ask for a referral to see a developmental pediatrician or other specialist. You can also call your local early intervention agency (for children under 3) or public school (for children 3 and older).