CDC Reports Autism Now Affects 1 in 31 U.S. Children

Written By Grant a Gift Autism Foundation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) now affects 1 in 31 children aged 8 in the United States, marking the highest prevalence recorded to date. This figure, based on 2022 data from 16 monitoring sites across 14 states and Puerto Rico, represents a significant increase from previous years—up from 1 in 36 in 2020 and 1 in 44 in 2018 (Reuters).

Understanding the Rise

Experts attribute this upward trend to several factors (across the nation):

  • Enhanced Awareness and Screening: Increased public awareness and improved screening practices have led to more children being evaluated and diagnosed.

  • Broadened Diagnostic Criteria: The expansion of diagnostic criteria over the years has encompassed a wider range of behaviors and symptoms under the ASD umbrella.

  • Improved Access to Services: Greater availability of diagnostic services and interventions has facilitated earlier and more frequent diagnoses.

However, these factors alone do not fully explain the rise. Researchers suggest that a combination of genetic and environmental influences affecting early brain development may also contribute to the increasing prevalence (Reuters).

Demographic Disparities

The CDC's findings highlight notable disparities:

  • Gender Differences: ASD is 3.4 times more prevalent among boys (49.2 per 1,000) than girls (14.3 per 1,000) (CDC).

  • Racial and Ethnic Variations: Higher prevalence rates were observed among Asian/Pacific Islander (38.2 per 1,000), American Indian/Alaska Native (37.5), Black (36.6), and Hispanic (33.0) children compared to White children (27.7) (CDC).

  • Intellectual Disabilities: Among children with ASD, 39.6% were classified as having an intellectual disability, with higher proportions among Black (52.8%) and American Indian/Alaska Native (50.0%) children (CDC).

Early Diagnosis Trends

Encouragingly, diagnoses are occurring at younger ages. Children born in 2018 were 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD by age 4 compared to those born in 2014 (CDC). Early identification is crucial for accessing interventions that can significantly improve outcomes.

Moving Forward

The rising prevalence of ASD underscores the need for continued research into its causes, as well as sustained efforts to ensure equitable access to diagnostic and support services. Addressing disparities and enhancing early detection remain critical components in supporting individuals with autism and their families.

Learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder by visiting the Centers for Disease Control.

Grant a Gift Autism Foundation
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