Stories

October 16, 2009

Autism, once considered a relatively rare disorder found only in about four of every 10,000 American children, now is being diagnosed in one of every 91 children and one in 58 boys, according to the Health Resources and Services Administration.

Based on a parent survey on the health of more than 78,000 children, researchers estimate that now one in 91 children have been told that they have a disorder on the autism spectrum.

The study found the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders has continued to increase and now affects one percent of children in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In a statement released on Oct. 5, 2009, the CDC stated: “We hope that these new data might raise awareness about ASDs to help improve early identification and intervention and to provide information for policy and service planning, which will ultimately help to meet the growing needs of individuals, families, and communities affected by ASDs.”

The need for early intervention, services, information and training in the area of ASD has never been greater. YAI has been providing quality services to thousands of people with ASDs for more than 50 years and is committed to providing families, people with disabilities and professionals with the most up to date information and training. 

The YAI Autism Center, headed by Dr. Charles Cartwright, combines our long tradition and expertise of serving people with autism with an early detection and treatment center; family support and life planning services; and a resource library.

For information about services for people of all ages with autism spectrum disorders, please call YAI LINK at 1-866-2-YAI-LINK, TDD: 212-290-2787. Contact the YAI Autism Center at 1-888-YAI-Autism.