Autism

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopment disorder that occurs in 1.7% of children in the United States. The hallmarks of autism are impairments in social communication and interaction, and restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior. Children with ASD usually require assistance with behavior, education, health, and family support. ASD can be diagnosed as early as 18 months of age, and often is first detected by a primary care provider. Children with ASD also may have other medical and behavioral conditions that require management by a physician, such as difficulty with feeding and sleeping, gastrointestinal symptoms, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Evidence shows that outcomes are improved with the implementation of interventions at an early age.