Author Description

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are estimated to occur among about 1% of children in the U.S. This is in line with estimates from other industrialized countries. However, the identified prevalence of ASDs has increased significantly in a short time period based on data from multiple studies including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. Whether increases in ASD prevalence are partly attributable to a true increase in the risk of developing ASD symptoms or solely to changes in community awareness and identification patterns is not known. It is clear that more children are identified with an ASD now than in the past and the impact on individuals, families, and communities is significant. However, disentangling the many potential reasons for ASD prevalence increases has been challenging. Understanding the relative contribution of multiple factors such as variation in study methods, changes in diagnostic and community identification, and potential changes in risk factors is an important priority for the ADDM Network and for CDC. This workshop was co-sponsored by CDC and Autism Speaks as a forum for sharing knowledge and opinions of a diverse range of stakeholders about changes in ASD prevalence. This summary report reflects statements made by individuals at the forum and discussions that were held among the attendees, and does not constitute formal consensus recommendations to CDC. The information, research, and opinions shared during this workshop add to the knowledge base about ASD prevalence in an effort to stimulate further work to understand the multiple reasons behind increasing ASD prevalence in the U.S. The workshop brought together epidemiologic prevalence and surveillance experts in ASDs and other conditions as well as representatives from autism organizations, parents of children with ASDs, adults with an ASD, and other stakeholders. Panel members and attendees commented that