Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. People with ASD typically have difficulty with social interaction and communication, and often engage in repetitive behaviors.
ASD can be mild, moderate, or severe. It is estimated that 1 in 59 children are diagnosed with ASD in the United States. Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls.
There is no one cause of ASD. It is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some research suggests that ASD may be caused by exposure to certain toxins or viruses during pregnancy. There is also evidence that ASD runs in families, so it may have a genetic component. However, the exact cause of ASD is unknown.
Most people with ASD need some form of support or intervention throughout their lives. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a big difference in the outcome for people with ASD. There is no “cure” for ASD, but there are treatments that can help improve symptoms and quality of life.