According to the World Health Organization, about one in 160 children, worldwide, has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. In the United States, autism prevalence is estimated at one in 68 births, which is a 119.4 percent increase from 2000, then estimated at one in 150 births. Boys are about four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls.
Though some scientists say the increase is still a mystery (in the 1980s, autism was about one in 2,000 births), some studies suggest that it is not a true increase, but different criteria used for diagnosis, in addition to the fact that the diagnosis of autism was broadened to autism spectrum disorder, increasing the range of symptoms and the number of individuals who fit into the broader category.
More than 3.5 million Americans live with ASD. Whatever the degree of the diagnosis – for you or your child, or if there are symptoms that make you suspect ASD – there are resources available. Here are a few of the many local and national outlets available to contact for help, education and information.
- Autism Speaks – St. Louis Chapter (314) 989-1003, autismspeaks.org/stlouis
- The Autism Society of America offers publications on guiding families new to autism to transitioning across grade levels, supporting appropriate behavior, puberty, sibling relationships and preparing for college living. autism-society.org
- The CDC provides an “If You’re Concerned – Act Early” page and other information. (800) CDC-INFO, cdc.gov
- Center for Autism Education (636) 978-7785, teachautism.org
- Mercy Kids Autism Center (314) 872-3345, mercy.net
- Missouri Families for Effective Autism Treatment (636) 527-3328, mofeat.org
- St. Gemma Center for Children with Autism and Developmental Disabilities is a special education school for students with autism and other developmental disabilities. (636) 230-0580
- St. Louis Arc (314) 569-2211, slarc.org
- St. Louis Autism Resources stlar.org
- St. Louis Children’s Hospital (314) 454-6000, stlouischildrens.org
From 1969 to 2019, the Autism Society’s National Conference was held to bring people together who have an autism diagnosis, family members, professionals, and community, state and national leaders for three days of training and listening to nationally recognized and respected leaders in the field. For 2020, the society partnered with other leading national organizations to present the 2020 Disability Policy Seminar, which has existed for over 40 years. Due to COVID-19, the seminar, originally set for March 23 to 25, in Washington D.C., was cancelled. The Autism Society of America will continue to provide training, networking and support to its affiliates through a new conference format that will occur in the latter half of 2020.
