Autism Awareness: AutismIs.org · AutismNJ.org · AutismSpeaks.org · New Jersey Depatment of Health
Symptoms: Children · Adults
Ride for Autism: Lincroft 6/9 · Other NJ Events
New Jersey Department of Health
Source: Autism Speaks New Jersey
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences. We now know that there is not one autism but many types, caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates autism’s prevalence as 1 in 68 children in the United States. This includes 1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls.
Autism’s most-obvious signs tend to appear between 2 and 3 years of age. In some cases, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Some developmental delays associated with autism can be identified and addressed even earlier.
Autism Speaks urges parents with concerns to seek evaluation without delay, as early intervention can improve outcomes. Click for where to get a diagnosis in New Jersey.
An estimated 50,000 teens with autism become adults – and lose school-based autism services – each year.
Around one third of people with autism remain nonverbal; around one third of people with autism have an intellectual disability.
Certain medical and mental health issues frequently accompany autism, such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures, sleep disturbances, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and phobias.
Autism New Jersey is the largest statewide network of parents and professionals dedicated to improving lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Through awareness, credible information, education, and public policy initiatives we recognize the autism community’s many contributions to society and work to enhance their resilience.
Our public policy work in Trenton and information line (800.4.AUTISM) are just a few of the ways we make a difference for New Jersey’s autism community.