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 What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that usually appears in early childhood. It can affect how a person communicates, interacts with others, experiences the world, and regulates behavior. Because autism is a spectrum, each person experiences it differently and to varying degrees (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

There is no single known cause of autism, but early diagnosis and support can help individuals lead full and meaningful lives (CDC, 2023).

 Characteristics & Diagnosis

Autism is diagnosed using the criteria outlined in the DSM-5, which identifies two main areas of difference:

1. Differences in communication and social interaction

May include:

• Difficulty with back-and-forth conversations

• Challenges understanding nonverbal cues

• Trouble forming or maintaining friendships

• Nonverbal communication or atypical speech patterns

2. Repetitive behaviors and restricted interests

May include:

• Repeating words or movements (e.g., echolalia, hand flapping)

• Strong need for routine

• Intense focus on specific interests

• Unusual reactions to sensory input (e.g., lights, textures, sounds)

These characteristics must be present from early development, though they may not become apparent until social demands exceed the individual’s ability to cope (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Need help finding a diagnostic provider in Kansas or Missouri? Contact us for a list of local resources.

 Prevalence & Disparities

• As of 2023, the CDC estimates that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is identified with autism (CDC, 2023).

• Autism affects people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds. However, Black and Hispanic children are often diagnosed later, partly due to barriers like access to care, stigma, and language (CDC, 2023).

• Boys are diagnosed about 4.5 times more often than girls. However, recent research suggests girls may go undiagnosed because their traits can present differently or be masked (CDC, 2023).

Early signs of Autism

Recognizing signs early can help individuals access the support they need to thrive. Common signs include:

• Delayed or absent speech (nonverbal)

• Repetitive language or movements (e.g., hand flapping, repeating words)

• Limited eye contact or facial expression

• Prefers solo or parallel play over group play

• Becomes upset by changes in routine

• Strong attachment to specific topics or objects

  For developmental milestone checklists, visit the CDC’s Learn the Signs. Act Early site.

 Facts & Statistics

• 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism (CDC, 2023)

• Over 3.5 million Americans are living with autism (Buescher et al., 2014)

• Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the U.S.

• Autism diagnoses rose 119.4% from 2000 to 2010 (CDC, 2014)

• Autism services cost the U.S. $236–262 billion annually, with the majority spent on adult services (Buescher et al., 2014)

• Early diagnosis and intervention can reduce the cost of lifelong care by up to two-thirds (Järbrink, 2007)

• It costs over $8,600 more per year to educate a student with autism than a neurotypical peer (Lavelle et al., 2014)

• 35% of young adults with autism (ages 19–23) are neither employed nor in postsecondary education (Shattuck et al., 2012)

• Only 16.8% of people with disabilities are employed, compared to 65% of those without disabilities (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014)

• In the UK, 1% of adults are estimated to have autism (Brugha et al., 2011)

Autism Across the Lifespan

Autism is a lifelong condition, but support needs can change with age. Access to inclusive education, employment, housing, healthcare, and community services plays a crucial role in quality of life.

To learn more, visit the Autism Society of America’s Autism Through the Lifespan resource.