Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a “spectrum disorder” that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause of autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.

In March 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued its ADDM autism prevalence report. The report concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 88 births in the United States and almost 1 in 54 boys.  The spotlight shown on autism as a result of the prevalence increase opens opportunities for the nation to consider how to serve these families facing a lifetime of supports for their children.

Currently, the Autism Society estimates that the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism ranges from $3.5 million to $5 million, and that the United States is facing almost $90 billion annually in costs for autism (this figure includes research, insurance costs and non-covered expenses, Medicaid waivers for autism, educational spending, housing, transportation, employment, in addition to related therapeutic services and caregiver costs).

Know the Signs: Early Identification Can Change Lives … Autism is treatable. Children do not “outgrow” autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes.

Here are some signs to look for in the children in your life:

•Lack of or delay in spoken language

•Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)

•Little or no eye contact

•Lack of interest in peer relationships

•Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play

•Persistent fixation on parts of objects

Jamey Helgeson is the Program Director at The Arc of Mower County and can be reached at jamey@arcmowercounty.org or by calling 507-433-8994, Extension 102.  You can also visit our website (www.arcmowercounty.org) and follow us on Facebook.