What is autism?

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears within the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication, and cognitive function.

Autism is referred to as a spectrum disorder (ASD) – meaning the symptoms can occur in any combination and with varying frequency. Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

Autism is one of five disorders coming under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by "severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development," including social interaction and communications skills (DSM-IV-TR).

The five disorders under PDD are Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD), Rhett’s Disorder, and PDD-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Each of these disorders has specific diagnostic criteria as outlined by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in its Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR).

Autism is not curable but it is highly treatable, symptoms can be lessened and skills can be acquired with treatment and support. Children do not “grow out” of autism but can learn to manage and deal more effectively with their symptoms.

Who is affected?

The latest statistics indicate that as many as 1 in 150 Canadians* are affected by autism spectrum disorder, an increase of 600% in the past 10 years.   What was once viewed as a rare disorder is now recognized as the most common neurological disorder affecting children.

Autism spectrum disorders are now more common than Down’s syndrome, childhood cancer, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, and blindness and deafness.

What causes autism?

Exactly what causes autism is still unknown. Current research suggests that a predisposition to autism might be inherited. Researchers have not found a specific “autism gene” but instead a nonspecific factor which may increase the likelihood of having cognitive impairments.  Researchers have also found neurobiological differences in the brains of individuals with autism.  

 * Statistic from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA