Despite rising numbers, autism is not an epidemic

A startling jump in the number of reported cases of autism - recent government-funded studies state that the disorder may affect one out of every 100 children- might lead you to the think there's an autism epidemic. Well, the good news is there is no epidemic. So why are we seeing such high numbers?

There are two main reasons. First, the definition of autism has broadened, which would include more children and, therefore, increase the total number. Second, there is a greater awareness of autism, so more parents are going to the doctor sooner, and doctors and other professionals are making the diagnoses earlier.

And that's exactly what you should do whenever you suspect something is not quite right with your child: Talk to your child's pediatrician. Symptoms of autism typically appear before age 3, and emerging research indicates that early detection is critical. The earlier we can diagnose autism and intervene, the greater the likelihood of optimizing the child's outcome.

Autism is a chronic, non-progressive developmental disability affecting more than 1.5 million children in the United States. It ranges from mild (Asperger's syndrome) to severe. The main signs of autism are impaired verbal and nonverbal communication, impaired social interactions, and restricted behavior. Symptoms include speech and language delays, limited eye contact, severe sleep problems, feeding difficulties, temper tantrums, behavior such as rocking and hand flapping, fascination with parts of toys, attachment to unusual objects, hyperactivity or hypoactivity, distress with changes in routine, and little pretend or imitative play.

Since there are different subtypes of autism and different degrees of its severity, it is more appropriately called autism spectrum disorder. Some other conditions can be associated with autism, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, which by themselves can mimic autism. Despite much research in the area of autism, for most children with this disorder, a cause cannot be identified, and no specific treatment is available.

Your child's pediatrician will conduct a screening for autism and, if necessary, make a referral to a physician in your community who specializes in autism. Those specialists are usually developmental pediatricians, child neurologists or psychiatrists, and they will be advocates for your child and your family.

Once the diagnosis is made, other professionals, such as psychologists and speech, occupational and behavioral therapists, will likely be involved in evaluating the areas in which your child may need help, including the best school placement. Whatever approach is used, an individualized treatment plan designed to meet your child's unique needs is essential.

Although the evaluation may be time-consuming and often frustrating, in the end you will be reassured that your child gets the best chance to live up to his or her potential.

The concept of autism also has changed so much recently; it is no longer as stigmatizing as it used to be. Parents of children with autism realize now, more than ever, that their children may have weaknesses, but they also have strengths and can get help.

For information, visit the following Web sites: Autism Coalition, www.autismcoalition.org; Autism Society of America, www.autism-society.org; and Autism Speaks, www.autismspeaks.org.