Autism more common than previously thought

By Dr. Ananya Mandal, MDApr 1 2012

Just last week, U.S. health authorities announced that autism is more common than previously thought. About 1 in 88 children in the United States have an autism spectrum disorder, according to the report. Autism spectrum disorders are developmental conditions associated with impaired social communication and repetitive behaviors or fixated interests. Diagnoses have risen 78% since 2000, partly because of greater awareness, and partly for reasons entirely unknown. Most medications don't help, and while some find improvements with intense (and expensive) behavioral therapy, there is no cure.

Rates appear to be similar in adults. England's National Health Service found in 2009 that about 1 in 100 adults are on the autism spectrum. People with more severe forms of autism may not be able to live independently or hold complex, social jobs.

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced this past week that she has invited 15 individuals to serve as public members on the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC).

The IACC is a federal advisory committee established by the Combating Autism Act of 2006 and reauthorized by the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011. It is composed of both federal officials and public members as well as public stakeholders who represent a variety of perspectives from within the autism community.

Among its responsibilities are coordinating all efforts within HHS concerning autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developing and annually updating a strategic plan for ASD and providing advice to the Secretary on matters related to ASD.

“The individuals invited to serve on the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee represent people on the autism spectrum, autism advocates, parents, clinicians, and researchers from across the country,” Secretary Sebelius said. “I look forward to working with the committee members to make a real difference in the lives of people with autism and their families.”

Today, second of April is World Autism Awareness Day, when organizations hold fundraising and awareness events to get the word out.