Autism Facts & Resources
What is Autism?
Quick Facts about Autism:
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain.
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The cause of autism is not known. Some people with ASD have a co-occurring condition.
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Scientists believe there are multiple causes of ASD that act together to change the most common ways people develop. We still have much to learn about these causes and how they impact people with ASD.
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Early Intervention is recommended following a diagnosis. Early intervention services can greatly improve the development of a child with ASD. All autistic individuals can continue to learn and grow throughout their lives with appropriate supports.
Source: CDC
Common Signs of Autism
Concerned about your child’s development?
CDC’s free resource kit for parents contains information on developmental milestones by age (2 months to 5 years), developmental screening, and a growth chart.
Screening for Autism
Key Points:
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Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be difficult because there is no medical test, such as a blood test, to diagnose the disorder. Doctors look at the child’s developmental history and behavior to make a diagnosis.
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Diagnosing ASD involves several steps.
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Some people with ASD are not diagnosed until they are adolescents or adults. This delay means that they might not get the early help they need.
Source: CDCÂ
Autism Treatment & Intervention
Key Points:
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Current treatments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) seek to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.
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Treatments can be given in education, health, community, or home settings, or a combination of settings.
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As individuals with ASD leave high school and grow into adulthood, additional services can help improve health and daily functioning, and facilitate social and community engagement.
There may be other treatments available for individuals with ASD. Talk to a doctor or healthcare provider to learn more.
Source: CDC
Frequently Asked Questions about Autism Spectrum Disorder
Q: Do vaccines cause autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
Q: Is there an ASD epidemic?
Q: Can adults be diagnosed with ASD?
A:Â Yes, adults can be diagnosed with ASD. Diagnosis includes looking at the person’s medical history, watching the person’s behavior, and giving the person some psychological tests. But it can be more challenging to diagnose an adult because it is not always possible to know about the person’s development during the first few years of life, and a long history of other diagnoses may complicate an ASD diagnosis.
from CDC – for more FAQs, visit CDC’s ASD FAQ webpage
Enroll at Sherwood
Interested in enrolling your loved one in Sherwood Autism Center’s programs? We’re here to support your loved one across their lifespan.