And now about Autism

When I was graduating from medical school in 1982 (in that last century!!) and beginning a 4 year residency in pediatrics, the incidence of autism was 4:10,000. In the 1990’s, that changed from 1:2500 to 1:1000 over the decade. The incidence has risen steadily since they began tracking in 2000, sparking fears of an Autism epidemic but this increase stems from two things: a growing awareness about Autism, and changes to the diagnostic criteria. In 2013 the American Psychiatric Association merged 4 previously distinct diagnoses under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Autistic Disorder (the most severe form), Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Delay-NOS (not otherwise specified), and Asperger Syndrome (the mildest variant). ASD is often referred to as being “on the spectrum”, a phrase we have all heard or used.

Autismspeaks.com states “Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and non-verbal communication, as well as unique strengths and differences.”

In 2018 the National Autism Spectrum Disorder Surveillance System notes that 1:66 children in Canada are affected (1:59 per the CDC in the US). 1:42 boys 1:189 girls.

Why boys are affected significantly more often that girls is poorly understood.

The causes of Autism are not clear but are thought to be due to genetic, non-genetic, and environmental influences. Let me be clear: VACCINES PLAY NO PART IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF AUTISM. All evidence to the contrary has been disproven/debunked to date.

I was disturbed to read that 50,000 teens transition each year into the adult world and lose their school based services. I will find out more later about what is available to them in adult life in Canada.
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ASD presents diagnostic challenges. There are no blood tests or simple medical tests. Diagnosticians look for a broad but specific group of symptoms, and this requires direct observation combined with an expert exam and assessment. Reports from parents, teachers, and other caregivers play an important role also.
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This is a lot of information to process so I will continue in a few days.