Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in 1 in 150 children in the United States, affecting four times as many boys as girls.

The diagnosis of autism has increased tenfold in the last decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown.

Did You Know?

• 1 in 150 children are diagnosed with autism
• 1 in 94 boys are on the autism spectrum
• 67 children are diagnosed per day
• A new case is diagnosed almost every 20 minutes
• More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined  

Early Signs of Autism:

• Loss or lack of speech by 18 months of age.
• Little or no eye contact.
• Loss or lack of gestures, such as pointing or waving.
• Repetitive speech or actions.
• Unusual reactions to the way things look, feel, smell, taste or sound.