April is National Autism Awareness Month

The National Autism Society has made April the month to raise awareness about autism. There are a number of ways to get involved this month, which is all mapped out at the Web site www.autism-society.org.

Autism is the most common of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD).  It is a complex developmental disability that affects the ability to communicate and interact with others. It is commonly detected in the first three years of life. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC) autism affects one in 110 births. It is estimated that 1.5 million Americans have some form of autism and that this number is growing at a rate of 10 to 17 percent per year. Autism could affect 4 million Americans by 2020.

Researchers know that Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function and that there are a number of conditions that could cause autism, ranging from genetics to environmental factors. So far, there are numerous theories with no definitive answers.

Autism is not curable, but it is treatable, especially if detected early. With supportive education, people with autism can live full and productive lives.

Find out more about autism and how you can get involved with the autism community this April, and throughout the year, at the National Autism Society Web site.

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