About Autism

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. ASD is a neurological disorder affecting the brain’s normal functioning, impacting development in social communication and behavior. Both children and adults with autism spectrum disorder often have difficulty relating to others.

In May 2013, the 5th Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) revised the definition of autism spectrum disorder to be more useful and accurate for both the medical and scientific communities. Using the DSM-5, physicians, psychologists, and multidisciplinary teams diagnose ASD based on the presence of: (1) deficits in social communication; and (2) restricted, repetitive patters of behavior, interests, or activities.

Read the Diagnostic Criteria via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

What are “Related Disabilities”?

  • Deaf-blind (hearing & vision impaired)
  • Hearing impaired or vision impaired with other disabling conditions

    Please contact our office for more details.

Prevalence

  • In 2010, 1.3% of 4-year-old children (1 in 75) in five communities across the United States were identified as having ASD.
  • In 2012, 1.5% of 4-year-old children (1 in 66) in five communities across the United States were identified as having ASD.
  • In 2014, 1.7% of 4-year-old children (1 in 59) in six communities across the United States were identified as having ASD.
  • In 2016, 1.3% – to 3.1% of 8-year-old children (1 in 54) in 11 communities across the United States were identified as having ASD.
  • In 2018, 1.65% – to 3.89% of 8-year-old children (1 in 44) in 11 communities across the United States were identified as having ASD.
  • In 2020, 2.31% – to 4.49% of 8-year-old children (1 in 36) in 11 communities across the United States were identified as having ASD.

Source: Centers for Disease Control

Diagnosis

There is no medical test, such as a blood test, to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Diagnosis can be as early as 18 months of age but is more often between 2 and 4 years and is based on observation of development and behavior.

CARD does not provide services such as diagnosis, therapy (for example ABA, OT, PT), ongoing behavioral interventions, respite care, or medical care of any kind.

For information about diagnostic assessments and therapies at UF Health please see UF Health Child or Adult Psychiatry, or contact UF Health CAN.

For complete details regarding our services see our Services & FAQ page

What You Can Do