Autism Spectrum Disorders are lifelong neurodevelopmental disorders that affect how people communicate and relate to others. The range and intensity of disability varies, but all people affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders have difficulty with communication, learning and social skills. There is no definitive cause or cure, but specialized interventions can give people affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders the tools they need to lead full and productive lives.

What is Autism?

Autism is a complex developmental disorder that typically affects a person's ability to communicate, form relationships, and respond appropriately to the environment. Autism results from a neurological disorder that impedes normal brain development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.

Autism knows no racial, ethnic, social, or economic boundaries, and the overall incidence rate is relatively consistent around the globe. There is no definitive cause or cure for this lifelong disorder, which affects four times as many boys as girls and usually manifests itself during the first three years of life.

Often referred to as a "spectrum disorder," the symptoms and characteristics of autism can present themselves in a variety of combinations, to varying degrees of severity, from mild to severe. The phrase “autism spectrum disorders” (ASD) refers to a broad definition of autism including Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), Rett's syndrome, Asperger syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.