April 23, 2024, ABC7, Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses at all-time high, CDC says
. . . According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses are at an all-time high. Ten years ago, the organization reported that 1 in 68 children were diagnosed on the spectrum. Now, that number is 1 in 36.
Medical professionals like Sherri Campbell with Lee Health say they’re not exactly sure why we’re seeing such an uptick in cases, although advocacy and awareness could play a role.
“Part of it, I think, is that we’re getting better at identifying it,” Campbell said. “I think in the past, these children might have just been considered to have a cognitive delay. Now, we’re able to separate out and do a little bit better with our diagnosing.”
Professionals say that, regardless of the reason for the rise, Autism Spectrum Disorder screenings and early prevention are key when it comes to making sure children have the resources they need.
“The most important thing that we want to do is help the children get what they need right off the bat,” Campbell said. . . .
Golisano Children’s Hospital provides free screenings on the last Saturday of every month at their location at 15901 Bass Road, Ste. 102 in Fort Myers. No insurance is required, and while appointments are recommended, they are also not required.
These screenings aren’t meant to officially diagnose children but are meant to look for signs children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may exhibit. Signs like not pointing to things they’re interested in or showing delays with waving, clapping and social skills. . . .
The non-profit organization Family Initiative also offers screenings every Saturday and when any family in the community needs them. . . .
Co-founder David Brown says they’ve done almost 1400 screenings for children in the community since Family Initiative started nine years ago.
“I think it says a lot about the demand for that and how many kids out there need that early intervention,” Brown said. . . .
Family Initiative helps with that early intervention, offering resources to children before and after a diagnosis with programs ranging from early childhood up to young adults. . . .
