Autism diagnoses are on the rise – but autism itself may not be

The number of autism diagnoses has been increasing, leading many to believe that autism itself is on the rise. However, this is not necessarily the case. Shannon Des Roches Rosa, a mother from California, shares her experience with her son Leo's autism diagnosis. When Leo was diagnosed at the age of two, Shannon felt lost and frustrated because she did not have clear answers about why her son was different. Many parents, like Shannon, seek to understand the reasons behind their child's autism. Some have even turned to the internet, where misinformation about vaccines causing autism has circulated. Over time, Shannon realized that her initial beliefs about vaccines were incorrect. She has since created a website to help other parents find accurate information about autism. The rise in autism diagnoses can be attributed to several factors. For one, autism was only recognized as a distinct condition in 1980, which means that many children who may have had autism were misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all. The criteria for diagnosing autism have also broadened over the years. In 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders introduced new categories, allowing more individuals to receive a diagnosis. This change has led to an increase in the number of people identified as autistic, particularly among groups that were previously overlooked. The rates of autism diagnoses can vary significantly depending on geographic location. For instance, some areas report lower diagnosis rates, while others, like California, have rates exceeding 5%. This discrepancy can be influenced by factors such as awareness of autism and access to diagnostic services. In recent years, there has been a growing understanding of autism, leading to more parents seeking evaluations for their children. This increased awareness has resulted in fewer cases of autism going undiagnosed. Research indicates that autism has a strong genetic component, with studies showing that if one child in a family has autism, their siblings are more likely to have it as well. However, genetics is not the sole factor contributing to autism. Environmental influences, such as parental age and maternal health during pregnancy, may also play a role. For example, older parents may have a higher likelihood of having a child with autism. Additionally, factors like preterm births and socioeconomic status can impact autism diagnosis rates. Despite the complexity of autism, one thing is clear: vaccines do not cause autism. Many people are searching for simple explanations for the rise in autism diagnoses, but the reality is that the situation is multifaceted. Experts emphasize the need for further research to better understand autism and its causes. The real issue lies not in the increase in diagnoses but in the lack of support systems for individuals with autism and their families. Shannon believes that improving support services is crucial for helping families navigate the challenges of autism. As researchers continue to explore the science behind autism, it is essential to focus on providing better care and understanding for those affected by this condition.