Autism [Novel] 412g3n

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and restricted and repetitive behavior. Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child’s life.4 586j5j

While autism is highly heritable, researchers suspect both environmental and genetic factors as causes.⁹

Early speech or behavioral interventions can help children with autism gain self-care, social, and communication skills.¹²

Globally, autism is estimated to affect 21.7 million people as of 2013.¹⁶ the question of whether actual rates have increased is unresolved.