Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). The other pervasive developmental disorders are PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified), Asperger's Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Many parents and professionals refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Today, it is estimated that one in every 150 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Government statistics suggest the prevalence rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually. There is not established explanation for this increase, although improved diagnosis and environmental influences are two reasons often considered. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis three to four times more frequently. Current estimates are that in the United States alone, one out of 94 boys is diagnosed with autism.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Autism Speaks has called in The Extraordinaries to help them document and raise autism awareness in communities around the world.
Download The Extraordinaries iPhone app, and get involved today:
http://download.BeExtra.org
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Kim Bale is the Community Outreach Intern for The Extraordinaries. She has also been published in Curve Magazine.
Before promoting "Autism Speaks," please Google the following --
"Autism Speaks" + criticism
to learn some of the things that "Autism Speaks" really DOESN'T want you to find out about itself!
Posted by: Kate Gladstone | November 12, 2009 at 12:45 AM