About Autism
Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts
throughout a person's lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders
known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Today, 1 in 150
individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than
pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. It occurs in all
racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to
strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to
communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid
routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging
objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from
very mild to quite severe.
