Autism spectrum disorder rate calculated at record high in 2014

Of the children with ASD, 80% had previously been diagnosed with the condition or determined to be eligible for autism services.

In light of the report findings, the authors wrote, “With prevalence of ASD reaching nearly 3% in some communities and representing an increase of 150% since 2000, ASD is an urgent public health concern that could benefit from enhanced strategies to help identify ASD earlier; to determine possible risk factors; and to address the growing behavioral, educational, residential and occupational needs of this population.”

Funding and disclosures were not reported.

SOURCE: Baio J et al. Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2018 Apr 27;67(6):1-28.