Jan 30, 2023, Midland (MI) Daily News: Dr. Haqqani: Autism rate increase also shows rise in associated conditions https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/autism-neurodevelopmental-disorder-17741398.php
The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reported January 10 that the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has risen to 2.3% in children 8 years of age in the U.S. and to 2.2% in adults. This represents an increase of 1.2% over a 10-year period.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated in 2022 that approximately one in 44 children in the U.S. had been diagnosed with ASD. That amounts to over seven million children. By comparison, the rate in 2004 was one in 125 children. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the rate in boys is 3.7% and for girls is 0.9%. ASD is not affected by race, ethnicity or socioeconomics.
Additionally, the report states that those with ASD show higher depression, anxiety and sleep disorder occurrences. The study also says treatment can include behavioral therapy and medication…..
Rise in associated conditions
The findings reported by JAMA showed that among those with ASD, there is a 13% higher rate of depression, a 6% higher anxiety rate and an 8% higher probability of sleep disorders. It was also noted that epilepsy is almost 20% more likely among those with a co-occurring intellectual disability, such as ASD….
Diagnosis and symptoms
CDC is conducting an extensive study on many aspects of ASD, including possible risk factors. Although
, it appears certain situations may signal greater risk. They include having a sibling with ASD or having genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as tubular sclerosis or fragile X syndrome. Having a complicated birth or being born to older parents may also be risk factors, according to CDC….
