Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is common in the United States. In fact, 1 in 36 children has been identified with ASD, according to estimates from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) network.

ASD is a condition caused by differences in the brain – people with ASD may behave, communicate, interact and learn in ways that are different from most other people. It is often characterized by restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests, as well as challenges with social communication and interaction.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), symptoms of ASD generally appear in the first two years of life. Every case of ASD is unique, so diagnosing ASD as early as possible in a child’s life is critical. With knowledge of the child’s unique strengths and challenges, caregivers can work with healthcare providers to determine which services, educational programs and therapies are most likely to be helpful for their child. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that early detection and early intervention greatly improve outcomes.

The NIH lists the following early signs of autism:

• Problems with eye contact.
• No response to his or her name.
• Problems following another person’s gaze or pointed finger to an object.
• Problems with nonverbal communication.

Some children with ASD regress, or stop using language, play or social skills that they had already learned, between the ages of 1 and 2.

Screening for development delays is recommended for children at their 9-, 18-, 24- or 30-month-old well-child visits, with specific autism screenings at 18 and 24 months, according to NIMH. A child may have additional screening if they have a higher likelihood of ASD or developmental problems.

If a child shows developmental differences in behavior or function during this screening, the healthcare provider may refer the child for additional evaluation. A team of healthcare providers with experience in diagnosing ASD conducts the diagnostic evaluation. The evaluation may lead to a formal diagnosis and recommendations for treatment.

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Visit the links below for more information on signs, diagnosis and treatment for ASD.

Sources:
Autism Spectrum Disorder, NIMH
Autism Spectrum Disorder, NIH