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Autism Diagnoses Surge in US: 1 in 36 Eight-Year-Olds Affected

Autism diagnoses are rising fast in the US. Better screening and awareness are helping more children get the support they need.

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In this picture there is a boy is sitting on wheelchair and playing a piano. On top of piano there...
In this picture there is a boy is sitting on wheelchair and playing a piano. On top of piano there are some toys. At the right side there is a curtain and a box on the floor. The boy is wearing a yellow shirt and pant.

Autism Diagnoses Surge in US: 1 in 36 Eight-Year-Olds Affected

Autism diagnoses are on the rise in the US, with the CDC reporting a significant increase in prevalence. Factors contributing to this trend include growing awareness, better screening, and possible environmental influences. The latest figures show that 1 in 36 eight-year-olds had autism in 2020, up from 1 in 44 in 2018.

The increase in autism diagnoses is not uniform across the country. State-by-state variations reflect differences in screening efforts. Early intervention has been shown to improve outcomes in cognition, language, and behavior. The CDC's findings underscore the need for more training and resources for autism professionals to meet the growing demand.

Autism is more common in boys, but prevalence among girls has risen to over 1%. Rates are also higher in Black and Hispanic children than in white children. The faster increase in prevalence among minority groups is largely due to improved access to diagnostic services and heightened awareness, reducing historical underdiagnosis. Exposure to air pollution and maternal stress may also play a role in autism prevalence.

Pediatricians are advised to screen for autism at 18 and 24-month check-ups, as early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

The rise in autism diagnoses reflects increased awareness, better screening, and improved access to services for minority groups. While the causes of autism are not fully understood, early intervention remains crucial. The CDC's findings highlight the need for more resources and training for autism professionals to meet the growing demand and ensure that all children receive the support they need.

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