Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be difficult to understand and if you’re a parent whose child has recently been diagnosed it can even be very overwhelming. So today we will be laying out some common facts about Autism that will help you gain a better understanding of ASD.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is considered to be a neurological disorder that impairs cognitive, social and communication functions. ASD can look different for each individual. It ranges from exhbiting neurological impairments, to showing a normal IQ and even an above average IQ. Around 1 out 68 children have been diagnosed with ASD and boys are about 5 times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with Autism. For more interesting facts and insight, we recommend taking a look at the links below:

• Mass General Lurie Center for Autism- This is a great compilation of 30 facts surrounding the history and current landscape of Autism in the United States and beyond.
  
• Autism Science Foundation - A useful list of resources about Autism, its causes, diagnoses, and treatments. The foundation states that ABA therapy is one of the most widely recognized treatments available to children today.
  
• Autism Speaks - One of the leaders in advocating on behalf of individuals with Autism, Autism Speaks has compiled a list of Austism Statistics and Facts that every individual dealing with Autism should know. Among their reccommendations is early intervention which affords the best opportunity to support healthy growth and development.
  
• National Autism Association - A center for advocacy, research and development, the National Autism Association put together this list of Autism facts and figures to help the public better understand ASD.
  
• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)- An incredibly useful overview of Autism, the signs and symptoms to look for and some of the treatments made available for those diagnosed with Autism.
  

This list of resources is a great start if you are trying to understand the fundamentals of Autism. ASD is currently one of the fastest growing developmental disorders in the US and it doesn’t discriminate. It affects all nationalities; all races and both sexes meaning it can affect anyone of us.