Rise in Autism Diagnosis Shows 175% Increase in 11 Years
A new study published in the JAMA Network Open journal has revealed a significant surge in autism diagnosis in the United States. According to the research, the number of Americans diagnosed with autism has jumped 175% between 2011 and 2022, primarily driven by a rapid increase in new cases among young adults.
Increased Diagnoses among Young Adults
A developmental disorder, autism affects an individual’s ability to learn, communicate, and interact with others. The study, led by Kaiser Permanente’s Division of Research in California, examined health records and insurance claims for 12.2 million Americans to track autism diagnosis trends. The research identified a 450% increase in diagnoses among adults aged 26-34 years during the study period, while female cases overall rose 315%.
Narrowing Gender Gap
Boys are four times as likely to be diagnosed with autism compared to girls, but the gender gap is noticeably narrowing. New diagnoses among boys climbed 185%, while those among girls leapt 305%, the study found.
Prevalence of Autism Diagnosis
According to the new data, about 30 in every 1,000 children between the ages of 5 and 8 have an autism diagnosis. Researchers believe that increased advocacy and education may be prompting more people to get themselves or their children screened, and changes to screening practices, diagnosis definitions, policies, and environmental factors may also be contributing factors.
Limitations and Future Research Directions
The study authors note that their data may underestimate the true prevalence of the condition, particularly among older women, as it has been historically easier to identify autism in males than females due to more overt symptoms.
Treatment and Management
There is no cure for autism, but treatments such as speech or physical therapy, behavioral interventions, or medications can help alleviate symptoms. Scientists are still working to determine the cause of the condition, with some exploring the potential effect of maternal infection during pregnancy.
Conclusion
The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for further research into the causes and correlates of autism, as well as the need for increased support and resources for individuals affected by the condition and their families.
FAQs
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What is the purpose of the study?
The study aims to track autism diagnosis trends and identify possible factors contributing to the increase in diagnoses.
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Why is the gender gap narrowing?
The study suggests that changes in screening practices, diagnosis definitions, and environmental factors may be contributing to the narrowing of the gender gap.
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What are some possible causes of autism?
Researchers are still exploring the causes of autism, with some investigating the potential effect of maternal infection during pregnancy.
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What are the possible treatments for autism?
Treatments such as speech or physical therapy, behavioral interventions, or medications can help alleviate symptoms of autism.
