According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2007), autism is estimated to occur in as many as one in 150 children. A federal study made public in early 2007 found New Jersey had the highest rate of autism ever recorded in the United States of one in 94 children, and one in 60 boys.

Overall, the incidence of autism is four times more common in boys than in girls and typically appears during the first 3 years of life. Children and adults with autism tend to have difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communications, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

As stated by the Autism Society of America:

• Every day 60 American families are told they have a child with autism.
• As many as one out of every 150 babies born will have autism.
• Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the United States
• Autism is growing at an alarming rate of 10 to 17 percent each and every year in America.
• More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than AIDS, diabetes and cancer combined.
• Autism receives less than 5% of the public funding contributed each year to fight all major childhood diseases.
• 1.5 million Americans have some form of autism spectrum disorder.
• Autism costs America an estimated $90 billion annually.
• The cost of lifelong care can be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention.
• In 10 years, the annual cost will be $200-400 billion.

Researchers are investigating a number of theories, including a link between heredity, genetics, birth-related medical problems and environmental factors. Psychological factors are not believed to be the cause of autism.

In any treatment plan, it is important for family members and treatment providers to address areas of social skill development, communication, behavior, and sensory integration.

African Americans living with autism need family members, professionals and advocates to take a stand on this important issue on their behalf. Disparities in health and special education must be included as a major part of our autism awareness message.

Our loved ones can be negatively affected throughout their lifespan if disparities in early diagnosis and treatment, health, special education and the criminal justice system are allowed to persist.

After you invite your family, don’t forget to invite your neighbors and friends. Reach out to other families that are touched by autism through your schools, support groups, and your doctor and therapist’s office. Its important that we try to reach as many people as we can and “Talk the Walk” wherever we go.

The Autism Puzzle Ribbon - What does it symbolize?

The autism awareness ribbon puzzle piece pattern is said to symbolize the mystery and complexity of autism. The different colors and shapes represent the diversity of people and families living with this developmental disorder. The brightness of this awareness ribbon signals hope. Hope that through research we will soon identify the causes and a cure for autism. And hope that through increasing awareness of autism, persons with the disorder will lead fuller and more complete lives.

The Autism Society of America has been awarded, from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a trademark for the Puzzle Ribbon logo as a result of its years of use, work and investment. ASA's goal is to protect the ribbon for responsible use within the autism community. It is ASA's intent to use its best efforts to make the puzzle ribbon logo available royalty-free to ASA Chapters and for all legitimate purposes and uses by autism organizations.