If you don't already know what
Autism is, please let me explain!
Autism is a complex developmental
disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The
result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain,
autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 1
in 150 individuals.
Autism is four times more prevalent
in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family
income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of autism's
occurrence.
People with autism may have
difficulties with social interaction and communication, as well as sensitivities
in the areas of sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. They also may show
repeated body movements such as rocking or spinning, poor eye contact, and
resistance to changes in routines.
AUTISM IS DEVASTATING
and here's why ...
Autism affects 1 in 150
children today across the population(1)
Over 24,000 new cases
diagnosed each year(2)
One new case every 20
minutes(2)
Autism can affect ANY
child by age 3(1)
An estimated 500,000
individuals between the ages of 1 to 21(2)
An estimated 1.3 million
cases in the United States(3)
Specially structured
programs cost in excess $60,000 per year(2)
Residential schools cost
$80,000 to $100,000 per year(2)
Government support ends
after age 21
Early intensive
behavioral intervention can save $200,000 per child
to age 22; to age 55, $1,000,000(3)
(1) National Institute
of Mental Health January 2007
(2) Center for Disease
Control
(3) www.iCARE4autism.org website
The latest statistics are shocking –
if one out of 150 children were missing …
we’d have a national emergency …
WE DO --
IT’S CALLED AUTISM!!!
