AUTISM 1 IN 59 IN THE USA

According to the CDC 1 in 59 Children in the US has been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as of April 26, 2018.  This statistic is up from 1 in 68 in 2016.  This is a 15% increase in just 2 years.  But, the State of NJ has 1 in 34 cases identified with an increase of 19%.

Globally Japan, the UK, Sweden, Denmark Canada, and Australia have as many or higher rates of Autism.  This is a Global problem that is growing.

There is speculation that more awareness and more clinical observations are increasing the level of diagnosis.  Identifying unusual signs that manifest in order to bring treatment to the individual at an early age could be the reason. 

But, those afflicted with Autism have trouble socializing at many different levels causing expensive treatments and life long care. 

One study is focusing on specific Genetics, the non-coding regions of the genome, from Autism Speaks’ MSSNG program. 

Even if a connection is implicated, how would it be treated, if it could be treated?  Can preliminary tests be done to avoid having a child with this debilitating condition?   Can we expect a cure as an outcome?

It seems like such a long road to find answers.  But, with enough funding and advancement in science, optimism for a cure, treatment, and/or prevention can be achieved. 

Until then, the people afflicted with the varying symptoms from the Spectrum of Autism will need proper education, assistance with daily living, and programs for them to have a quality of life after they have aged out of the school system.

All this takes a lot of funding and caring people to Advocate for this population who have little or limited ability to Advocate for themselves.