Autism and related disorders in Britain may be twice
as widespread as previously thought, according to
research published.
The study showed that 116 in every 10,000 children
suffer from autism or autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
The previous estimate was 44 per 10,000.
"Prevalence of autism and related ASD is substantially
higher than previously recognized," said Professor
Gillian Baird, of Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital in
London.
"Whether the increase is due to better ascertainment,
broadening diagnostic criteria, or increased incidence
is unclear," she added.
The cause of autism, which usually develops before
the age of 30 months, is unknown. In some cases it
is apparent from birth. Children with the condition
become withdrawn, self-absorbed, are often unable
to communicate and do not follow normal patterns of
development.
The condition is more prevalent among boys than girls.
ASDs are developmental disorders characterized by
different degrees of impairment in communication and
social skills and repetitive patterns of behavior.
The researchers calculated the new estimates by looking
at cases of autism and ASDs in children aged nine
and 10 in south London in 2001. They studied children
with all forms of ASD and children with special educational
needs.
The study published in The Lancet medical journal
revealed 39 children per 10,000 had autism and 77
per 10,000 had ASD.
"Services in health, education and social care will
need to recognize the needs of children with some
form of ASD, who constitute one percent of the child
population," Baird said in the study.
