KANSAS CITY, MO -
A new survey of parents raises new questions about just how common autism is. It found one in 91 kids has an autism spectrum disorder. That's nearly double the previous rate.
Sam Maxwell has been diagnosed with mild to moderate autism.
"You don't know what kind of future they have, and it does feel like a death sentence when they first say autism," said his mother, Kelly Maxwell.
A survey of parents in 2007, just published in the Journal Pediatrics, finds one in 91 kids with a current diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder. That's much higher than previous reports.
"I just think it's very, very prevalent and very alarming," said Maxwell.
Researchers say a broader definition of the autism spectrum compared to previous surveys may have something to do with the increase, as well as more awareness of autism.
But, experts say it goes beyond that. "I think there's no question there's a real increase going on," said Dr. Rochelle Harris, Children's Mercy Hospital.
Dr. Harris said there's a genetic component that may be combining with things in the environment to cause autism.
"We need to put more resources to fully understand or attempt to understand where this increase is coming from," said Dr. Harris.
Interestingly, the survey also found that more than one in three kids ever diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder no longer have that diagnosis. Researchers say many were later diagnosed with other developmental or mental health conditions.
But, Dr. Harris says early, intensive therapy can help some children with autism to function normally, and to outgrow the symptoms.
Sam is on his way. With help from the ABC 'n D Autism Center, he's doing very well.
"I believe absolutely he'll grow up and be able to hold down a job," said Maxwell. And, she said, in spite of the alarming numbers, there is hope.
Parents of children with autism in both Missouri and Kansas continue to fight for legislation requiring insurers to cover autism treatment.
Sam Maxwell has been diagnosed with mild to moderate autism.
"You don't know what kind of future they have, and it does feel like a death sentence when they first say autism," said his mother, Kelly Maxwell.
A survey of parents in 2007, just published in the Journal Pediatrics, finds one in 91 kids with a current diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder. That's much higher than previous reports.
"I just think it's very, very prevalent and very alarming," said Maxwell.
Researchers say a broader definition of the autism spectrum compared to previous surveys may have something to do with the increase, as well as more awareness of autism.
But, experts say it goes beyond that. "I think there's no question there's a real increase going on," said Dr. Rochelle Harris, Children's Mercy Hospital.
Dr. Harris said there's a genetic component that may be combining with things in the environment to cause autism.
"We need to put more resources to fully understand or attempt to understand where this increase is coming from," said Dr. Harris.
Interestingly, the survey also found that more than one in three kids ever diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder no longer have that diagnosis. Researchers say many were later diagnosed with other developmental or mental health conditions.
But, Dr. Harris says early, intensive therapy can help some children with autism to function normally, and to outgrow the symptoms.
Sam is on his way. With help from the ABC 'n D Autism Center, he's doing very well.
"I believe absolutely he'll grow up and be able to hold down a job," said Maxwell. And, she said, in spite of the alarming numbers, there is hope.
Parents of children with autism in both Missouri and Kansas continue to fight for legislation requiring insurers to cover autism treatment.
