Autism Spectrum Disorder Is one of the Fastest Disorders in the United States
BY Mary A. Schuttta
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex developmental disorder. One percent of the United States’ population aged 3 – 17 has this disorder. Autism is one of the fastest growing disorders with a 10% – 17% Annual growth rate.1-1.5 million Americans live with Autism today. The cost for taken care of individuals’ with Autism for a lifespan cost 3.2 million dollars per person. This disorder causes problems with social interaction and communication. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder can have very different symptoms. Autism Spectrum Disorder also includes Autism disorder, Asperger Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Otherwise Specified. The symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder are does not babble or coo by the age of one. Does not point, wave, or grasp by the age of one. The child does not say single words by the age of one year and four months of age. Does not say two-word phrases by the age of two. The child has any loss of language or skill at any age. The symptoms of Autism are usually seen by the age of 24 months. Autism has no one single causes though there are many theories. One theory is that it is caused by abnormalities in the brain structure or function. The abnormalities of the brain can be proven by a brain scan. There is also a link in many families with Autism related disabilities. Another theory is problems during pregnancy or during delivery that could cause Autism. Autism also seems to occur frequently among individuals who have certain medical conditions including Fragile X Syndrome, Tuberous Sclerosis, Congenital Rubella, and Phenylketonuria (PKU). Environmental Factors such as heavy metals like mercury also may cause Autism. The current trend in a medical diagnosis typically includes a school evaluation. A parent may request verbally...