Autism Rates Spike

         

        Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. In the past decade, CDC reports have shown autism rates to have risen threefold. Prior to 2001, the condition was estimated to be diagnosed in one out of a hundred fifty children. But now, CDC reports evaluate one in fifty-four children to be diagnosed with autism. An article written by NBC News discusses the reasons behind the increased number of autism diagnoses. The article speculates that a greater awareness of the disorder and advancement in the approaches to diagnosing the condition must've led to an upsurge in the numbers. However, the article also mentions that other factors, such as genetics and environment, might contribute to the trend. 

        All things considered, increased research scope on autism are uncovering better methods of diagnosing the condition early. While also discovering new genetic mechanisms to allow for a better understanding of how the disorder is cultivated. Dr. Maggie W. Guy and her colleagues work in one of the research laboratories that are striving to find better ways of diagnosing autism spectrum disorder. In the article "Cortical Source Analysis of the Face Sensitive N290 ERP Component in Infants at High Risk for Autism," they explain their research and how it could diagnose autism earlier. The study's findings highlight the need for group-specific head templates for accurate source analysis in infants at high risk for ASD. The study's results have implications for the development of measures aiding in the early identification of ASD in infancy and for promoting an increased understanding of cortical development associated with social information processing in neurodevelopmental disorders, including FXS and ASD. Continued research in this area is important to better understand the neural bases of ASD and to develop effective interventions.

    Overall Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex condition that affects individuals in different ways. Early intervention and treatment can greatly improve outcomes for individuals with ASD. It is important to seek out resources and support from healthcare providers, educators, and community organizations to help individuals with ASD reach their full potential.

Guy, Maggie W., et al. “Cortical Source Analysis of the Face Sensitive N290 ERP Component in Infants at High Risk for Autism.” Brain Sciences, vol. 12, no. 9, 2022, p. 1129., https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12091129.

“Autism Rates Have Tripled. Is It More Common or Are We Better at Diagnosis?” NBCNews.com, NBCUniversal News Group, 26 Jan. 2023, https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/autism-rates-rising-more-prevalent-versus-more-screening-rcna67408.