Autism
- is a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3
- impacts the normal
development of the brain in the areas of social interaction,
communication skills, and cognitive function.
Individuals with autism
typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication,
social interactions, and leisure or play activities.
- affects 1 in 250 births (at least)
- will affect 22 new babies
born today throughout the US
- is the Fastest Growing
Development Disability
- costs $20-60 Billion
Annually
- is more prevalent than multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy or Downs syndrome.
Cost of treatment can
be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention
In 10 years, the annual cost will be $55-300 Billion
Without early effective treatment, autistic individuals often require lifelong
care.
This disorder is fast becoming an epidemic and is clearly a public health
crisis.
Early diagnosis and intensive early intervention have been shown
to improve the lives of autistic children and their families.
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