What Is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD may behave, communicate, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. Autism typically appears within the first 3 years of life and affects each individual differently. Early screening, diagnosis, and services are essential to get the best results for children with autism.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 1 in 36 (2.8%) 8-year-old children have an autism spectrum disorder.
- It is estimated that between 23,000 and 48,000 children in Washington have some form of autism.