Many people around the world are beginning to wonder why are autism rates increasing. Like so much on the subject of autism it is not necessarily a straightforward answer

Background

In the 1960s and 1970s, the estimated prevalence of autism was around 1 in 2,000 children.

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that about 1 in 54 children in the United States have ASD, a prevalence rate that has risen steadily over the past several years.

This represents an increase of about 30-fold over the past 50 years.

This steep increase has led many to question the reasons for this trend.

Increased awareness

One major reason for the increase in autism rates is improved awareness and diagnosis.

Over the years, healthcare professionals have become more knowledgeable about the signs and symptoms of autism, allowing for more accurate diagnoses.

This has led to more cases of autism being identified than in the past, especially among previously under-diagnosed groups such as girls and adults.

If you think back to perhaps when you were a child. It is likely that you were at school with any number of children who would be diagnosed with autism now but weren’t then.

Changes in diagnosis

Changes in diagnostic criteria may be contributing to the rise in autism rates. The diagnostic criteria for autism have evolved over time, with broader and more inclusive criteria now in place.

This means that individuals who may not have been diagnosed with autism in the past are now being recognised as having the disorder.

Autism has also previously been described as a ‘catch all net’ in that the widening of what is deemed as autism could cross over with other conditions.

Genetic factors

There is also evidence to suggest that genetic factors play a role in the development of autism.

It is possible that certain genetic factors are becoming more prevalent in the population, leading to an increase in autism rates.

While the specific genetic factors involved are not yet fully understood, research has shown that autism tends to run in families and has a strong genetic component.

Summary

There are several factors that may be contributing to why autism rates are increasing.

These include improved awareness and diagnosis, changes in diagnostic criteria, and genetic factors.

It is important to continue studying the factors involved in the development of autism to better understand and support individuals with the disorder and their families.

Please feel free to browse our archive for more articles on raising an autistic child and autism in general.