June 2016 Autism Facts

Provided by Full Spectrum ABA © 2016

Autism Fact #1

Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleulerwas the first person to use the term "autism" but applied it to adult schizophrenia. In 1943, the term was redefined by Leo Kannar who disassociated autism from schizophrenia to create the modern understanding of the disorder.

Autism Fact #2

As of the year 2014, autism affects an estimated one in every 68 children born in the US. For identical twins, if one twin is diagnosed with autism, the other twin has roughly a 90% chance of also developing the disorder.

Autism Fact #3

There is no blood test, no scan, and no image that can detect autism. Diagnosis relies on behavioral observation and screening.

Autism Fact #4

More common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined, the resources for autism patients have grown immensely. “Naughty Auties” is a virtual resource center for those with autism.

Autism Fact #5

A study from three states suggests that counties with higher precipitation levels have higher autism rates. Higher precipitation rates might carry more pollutants, decreased vitamin D levels, and increased television watching that could trigger autism.

Autism Fact #6

From the Greek autos meaning “self,” autism literally means “alone. And as each child's case is different, more and more doctors and researchers are referring to autism as autisms. Causes and treatments are unique to each child as well.

Autism Fact #7

The Obama administration earmarked $211 million for autism research. Today, any child younger than 3 years of age with developmental delays qualifies to receive services through Early Intervention, a government-mandated program that provides services to eligible children. Services are free and may include speech and language instruction as well as occupational and physical therapy.

Autism Fact #8

Affecting one in 68 children, and one in 42 boys, autism is nearly five times more prevalent in boys than girls. The disorder costs a family nearly $600,000 on average per year.

Autism Fact #9

Other disabilities that fall within the Autism Spectrum category include Asperger’s syndrome, PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified), RettSyndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.

Autism Fact #10

Many children with autism have a reduced sensitivity to pain but may be extra sensitive to sound, touch, or other sensory stimulation—which may contribute to a reluctance to being cuddled or hugged. Studies have shown that dogs can improve autistic children’s quality of life, independence, and safety. The presence of a trained dog can reduce aggressive behavior, calm the child, and serve as a link to the child’s community.