FACT: It is not known how many children in the United States currently have autism spectrum disorders. Studies done in Europe and Asia since 1985 indicate that there may be as many as 2/1,000 children who have one of the autism spectrum disorders.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of life-long developmental disabilities caused by an abnormality of the brain. ASD are characterized by problems with social interaction and communication skills, and by the need for sameness or repetition in behavior. ASD includes autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder - not otherwise specified (also known as atypical autism), and Asperger’s disorder.

Children with ASD require long-term care and services. Special education costs for a child with ASD are over $8,000 per year, with some specially structured programs costing about $30,000 per year, and care in a residential school costs $80,000 - $100,000 per year.

Little is known about what causes ASD, although genetic and environmental factors have been suggested. There is no cure for ASD, however, early and intensive education can help children develop skills. Also, although available medicines cannot cure ASD, some may relieve symptoms associated with the disorders.

Surveillance Activities for Autism

Research Activities for Autism

The Children's Longitudinal Development Study (CHILD)

The Children’s Longitudinal Development Study (CHILD Study) is an ongoing case-control study in which detailed information will be obtained on pre- and perinatal medical conditions and suspected risk factors for select disabilities (including autism) among children identified through the Metropolitan Atlanta Developmental Disabilities Surveillance Program (MADDSP).

Secondary Conditions

Depending on the severity of impairment, many people with autism may require special medical care, educational and social services, and lifelong assistance from their family and community.

Prevention of Secondary Conditions Related to Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorder

The Marshall University Autism Training Center, in West Virginia, is conducting an intervention study with families of children who have autism. Researchers at Marshall University have developed a comprehensive program aimed at reducing stressors that adversely affect children with autism and their families. The program centers on development of family support plans. These plans coordinate professional activities with the children, provide positive behavior support training for parents and teachers,and facilitate community partnerships, usually with another family who  has a child with autism. The Developmental Disabilities Branch of CDC's National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) provides research funds and technical assistance to this project.

Funding Period: 9/1/98 - 8/31/99

State Capacity Projects

The Secondary Conditions Prevention Branch of the Division of Child Development, Disability, and Health is funding state capacity projects that are attempting to determine the magitude of secondary conditions that may occur in broader domains (many of which affect individuals with autism) in an effort to determine human and economic costs within 14 states. These domains include mobility, communication, learning, and personal care/home management.

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