Is there an autism epidemic?
More people than ever before are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, but is almost five times more common among boys than among girls. CDC estimates that about 1 in 68 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
It is unclear exactly how much of this increase is due to a broader definition of ASD and better efforts in diagnosis. However, a true increase in the number of people with an ASD cannot be ruled out. The CDC believes the increase in ASD diagnosis is likely due to a combination of these factors.