Autism

Overview

Autism spectrum disorder (including autism, pervasive developmental disorder, Asperger syndrome) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, whose cause is unknown, but thought to be inherited. Although the pattern of difficulties varies from person to person, generally individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) demonstrate impairment in language, communication, and ability to relate to others. Some children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder engage in repetitive behaviors and have difficulty with transitions or change in daily activities. They have unique ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to sensations. An Autism Spectrum Disorder is usually diagnosed in early childhood and ranges from the more severe autism to the milder, more subtle Asperger syndrome. About a third of children with this disorder show a loss of communication and social skills between one and three years of age. The symptoms continue throughout the lifespan; however, the majority of children receiving early intervention demonstrate significant gains in their cognitive, social and language skills.

ASD is not a rare disorder. It occurs in about one in 167 children and is more common than Down syndrome and childhood cancer. It is 2-4 times more common in boys than girls.

NEW!

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Autism Spectrum Disorders

Visit CDC's new autism website!

* Updated and easy-to-read information on facts, screening, diagnosis, and treatments * Pages dedicated to data & statistics, research, and publications

* Individualized pages for different visitors - people with ASD, families, healthcare providers, educators, and partners

* An interactive autism quiz

Data and Statistics »

RESOURCES:

Washington State Autism Awareness Project

Learn what the WA State Department of Health and partners are doing for approximately 8,000 to 12,000 children and youth in Washington State who have some form of autism.

www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/mch/Autism/Autism.htm

Washington State Autism Task Force Report

Published reports from the Caring for Individuals with Autism Task Force can be accessed at www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/mch/Autism/ATF.htm.

Autism Guidebook for Washington State: A Resource for Individuals, Families and Professionals

This comprehensive updated guidebook is available at www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/mch/Autism/Guidebook.htm.

MCH LIBRARY RELEASES NEW EDITION OF KNOWLEDGE PATH ABOUT AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS    http://www.mchlibrary.info/knowledgepaths/kp_autism.html

Overview of Autism

Resources for Professionals

• Web Sites
• Additional Learning Resources
• Distance Learning Resources
• Databases: Data, Literature and Research, Programs
• Electronic Newsletters
• Discussion Forums and Other Social Media

Resources for Families

• Find Care
• Web Sites

Resources on Specific Aspects of Autism

• Early Identification
• Early Intervention and Education
• Concerns about Vaccines
• Environmental Health Research
• Inappropriate Use of Seclusion and Restraints

 

 

 

Primary Reviewers Autism Section:

• Felice Orlich, Ph.D. Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Associate Director, UW Autism Center
• Katherine TeKolste, MD, FAAP, Developmental Pediatrician

 

More Autism Pages

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Clinical Care Guidelines
Provider-Focused Information
Provider Forms and Tools
Family-Focused Information and Tools
For Help Finding Local Services

 

Page History:

Reviewed and edited by Dr. Felice Orlich, Dec. 21, 2005

Updated by Dr. Katherine TeKolste, September 2, 2009