Prevalence
2–25 per 1,000
The overall prevalence of ASD in Europe, Asia and the United States ranges from 2 to 25 per 1,000 (approximately 1 in 40 to 1 in 500). It occurs in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.
What is Autism
Understanding autism
Watch a short introduction
Overview
A closer look at autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a biologically based neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by impairments in two major domains:
Deficits in social communication and social interaction
Restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests and activities
ASD encompasses disorders previously known as autistic disorder (classic autism), Asperger syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified.
Common symptoms
What are the key symptoms of autism?
Children with autism may experience a wide range of symptoms. Some common signs include:
- Trouble relating to other people
- Avoiding eye contact
- Not wanting to be touched
- Not wanting to play or interact with others
- Difficulty in social communication
Early signs often appear before the age of three.
Behavioural characteristics
Children with autism often show specific behavioural patterns, such as:
- Limited interests and repetitive behaviours
- Being completely focused on certain topics and ignoring other things
- Having rituals and getting upset if routines change
- Repeating physical motions like hand flapping, rocking or spinning
- Reciting scripts from movies, TV shows or past conversations
Individual strengths
Every child with autism is unique and may have special abilities, such as:
- Strong memory and attention to specific details
- Creative thinking and unique perspectives
- Talents in music, art, maths or dance
- Different ways of learning and communicating
- May be verbal or non-verbal, each with their own strengths
Understanding ASD in detail
How common it is, what causes it, and how it is diagnosed and managed.
Male to female ratio
3–4 : 1
ASD is three to four times more common in males than in females.
MaleFemale
Causes of ASD
Genetic
Biological
Environmental
The exact cause is unknown. Environmental, biological and genetic factors can make a child more likely to have ASD, and the common view is that autism results from a combination of these factors.
Diagnosis of ASD
ASD is diagnosed by a multidisciplinary team through evaluation of a person's behaviour and development. The evaluation includes medical and neurological examinations, assessment of the child's cognitive abilities and language skills, and observation of their behaviour and developmental history.
Management of ASD
There is no cure for autism, but early and intensive intervention can make a significant difference. Management is individualised to each child's age and needs, and uses a multidisciplinary approach: educational, behavioural and developmental support from trained professionals such as special educators, therapists and caregivers.
FAQ
Questions parents often ask
Clear answers to common questions about autism, diagnosis and support.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others and experiences the world. It is called a spectrum because every autistic person has a different mix of challenges and strengths.
Early signs often appear before the age of three, and some children show signs in the first year of life.
The exact cause is unknown. It is believed to result from a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors.
There is no cure, but early and intensive intervention can make a significant difference to a child's development and independence.
Many children with autism can attend a regular school with the right support, while others benefit from specialised education settings.
Keep routines consistent, use clear and simple communication, celebrate strengths, and work closely with teachers and therapists.
Together We Can
Help Every Child Reach Their Full Potential
Your support can help provide education, training and a brighter future for individuals with autism. Join us in making a lasting change.
