California Autism Rates Rising
Study Reveals Dramatic Increase in the Bay Area
According to the study conducted, autism rates have risen in the California Bay Area from 14,039 to 39,711 between 2001 and 2007, with an alarming net increase of 25,672. The number of autistic students enrolled in special education has more than doubled in six counties across the Bay Area.
The six counties noted with significant increases were Alameda County, Contra Costa County, Marin County, San Francisco County, San Mateo County, and Santa Clara County. The highest increase was found in Santa Clara County with 730 in 2001 to an increase of 1,935 by 2007. Alameda County was second with 597 children diagnosed in 2001 to 1,444 children diagnosed by 2007.
By 2007, the remaining counties had the following net increases:
- Contra Costa County - 678
- San Mateo County - 424
- San Francisco County - 208
- Marin County - 76
What is autism?
It is often referred to as a "spectrum disorder" and can affect individuals differently. It is a neurological and developmental disorder which impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is often associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors.
What are the signs and symptoms of autism?
According the Mayo Clinic, many children show signs of autism in infancy and begin expressing delay in three major developmental areas, such as social development, language, and behavior.
- Socially, the child may fail to respond to his or her own name, avoid eye contact, resist contact such as hugging, prefers solitary play, and may appear to be in his or her "own" world.
- Delays in language development may include the repetition of words, avoidance of eye contact when communicating, delayed speech, and the inability to continue a conversation, or loss of previously learned vocabulary and language skills.
- Behaviorally, the child may exhibit specific routines and rituals, becomes upset by a change or disturbance in a routine, shows a fascination with objects, or performs repetitive movements.
What are the causes of autism?
To date, there is no conclusive evidence to the cause of autism. There has been much debate over the many additives used in immunizations, which is raising concern for many parents. While the debate over immunizations continues, it is recommended that parents retain the vaccine manufacturer name and lot number. Due to the increased rise of autism rates in the California Bay Area, many parents are concerned that possibly the environment is a contributing factor.
How is autism diagnosed and what treatments are available for autism?
Early intervention is imperative if you suspect an autism spectrum disorder. If an ASD is suspected, a good place to start is with your child's pediatrician, which begins with your child's well health checkups. There is not a "treatment protocol" for children with ASD, however there are some intervention methods that can improve a child's development.
- Speech Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Sensory Integration Therapy
- Applied Behavioral Analysis
- Floortime
- Diet
- Verbal Behavioral Intervention
According to the study, the high numbers reported may be due to an increased public awareness of early intervention and increased awareness of the signs and symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders. The study does not state specifically why the number of children enrolled in specialized education with ASD's has risen so much over the past six years.
