Latest Autism Stats

Happy Wednesday Everyone

I was gobsmacked when I found out the latest stats for Autism or Autism Spectrum disorders in the the U.S. according to the Autism Awareness newsletter.

* 1 in 150 births
* 1 to 1.5 million Americans
* Fastest-growing developmental disability
* 10 - 17 % annual growth
* Growth comparison during the 1990s(3):
o U.S. population increase: 13%
o Disabilities increase: 16%
o Autism increase: 172%
* $90 billion annual cost(4)
* 90% of costs are in adult services(4)
* Cost of lifelong care can be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention(4)
* In 10 years, the annual cost will be $200-400 billion(5)

While the stats for Autism and Autism related conditions in Canada are still inconclusive according to the Autism Society of Canada website there are about 1 in 165 births and in the U.K. an estimated 1 in a 100 births.

The most shocking thing of all is that these numbers are increasing steadily and there is no apparent reason why. Kind of makes you wonder doesn't it???


All the best

Monicka