#United States #Irvine #CDC Autism Rates #TACA Organization #Autism Awareness

Autism Diagnosis Rates Surge in the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published alarming new data reflecting that autism diagnoses in the United States have reached unprecedented levels. According to the CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (ADDM) report for 2022, 1 in 31 children in the U.S. is now diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This marks a staggering 384% increase since 2000, coinciding with the founding of The Autism Community in Action (TACA).

Lisa Ackerman, Co-Founder and Executive Director of TACA, emphasizes the gravity of this statistic, stating, "Behind every data point is a child, a family, and a future." As the data illustrates, the implications of such a rise are profound, calling for urgent action and support for affected families.

Key Statistics from the CDC Report

The monitoring report released by the CDC reveals several alarming trends:

• - Current Diagnosis Rate: 1 in 31 children across the United States is identified with autism.
• - Gender Disparity: Boys are disproportionately affected, with 1 in 20 boys diagnosed with ASD.
• - Rising Minority Rates: The diagnosis rates are soaring among minority populations, with significant examples being:

- Asian and Pacific Islander: 38.2 per 1,000
- American Indian and Alaska Native: 37.5 per 1,000
- Black: 36.6 per 1,000
- Hispanic: 33.0 per 1,000
- White: 27.7 per 1,000

• - Intellectual Disability: Nearly 64% of individuals with autism also experience some level of intellectual disability, with 39.6% having an IQ below 70.

Increase in Young Diagnoses

Particularly concerning is the increase among younger children. Four-year-olds are now 1.7 times more likely to receive a diagnosis compared to four years ago.

Debunking Myths About the Rise

While the conventional belief attributes the increase in diagnoses to greater awareness and an evolving definition of autism, experts are challenging this narrative. Walter Zahorodny, Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, remarks, "The notion that this increase results merely from improved awareness or a shifting definition lacks merit." His critical view prompts a reconsideration of the factors contributing to this rise, suggesting that more in-depth investigations are necessary.

TACA’s Pledge to Support Families

In light of these rising figures, TACA is reasserting its commitment to aid families navigating the complexities of autism. Ackerman highlights, "For 25 years, TACA has provided education, support, and hope, helping families tackle challenges pertaining to therapies, educational pathways, medical issues, and the uncertainty about the future. The increasing statistics serve as a clarion call; we must unite to meet the escalating demands of the autism community."

Today, TACA is actively serving over 61,000 members nationwide through comprehensive support systems including expert-led virtual seminars, scholarships, and extensive online resources. TACA’s robust presence on social media platforms further fortifies its outreach and support capabilities, allowing it to extend its services to a broader audience.

About The Autism Community in Action

Founded in 2000 and based in Irvine, California, The Autism Community in Action is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential resources and guidance to families affected by autism. TACA’s diverse programs encompass free educational meetings, parent mentorship initiatives, online support groups, and an annual National Autism Conference, all aimed at enhancing family welfare. The organization is an essential resource, offering hope and direction to thousands confronting the challenges of autism.

For more information on TACA and its initiatives, visit tacanow.org.