Maryland Autism Coalition: What Is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex brain-based difference that impacts a person’s communication, sensory processing, social interactions, and behavior.
The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) estimates that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 US children. Boys are 3.8 times more likely to be identified with ASD than girls; 1 in 23 boys and 1 in 88 girls. The overall rate in Maryland is 1 in 43 children: 1 in 27 boys and 1 in 116 girls.
While the exact cause is unknown, the CDC suggests that it is a combination of genetics and environment. There is no cure, however, there are many therapies and treatments for some of ASD’s symptoms.
Coalition Member Resources: