Why Is the Number of Autistic People So High Now?
Autism rates are rising, or at least that is what it appears. A study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that the number of children and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has increased by 175% over a decade. In this study, researchers analyzed electronic health records and insurance claims data from more than 12.2 million people from 2011 to 2022. Over that period, autism prevalence across the lifespan rose from 2.3 per 1,000 people to 6.3 per 1,000 people.
While this study offers insights into trends in autism diagnoses over time, it does not replace or contradict prevalence data from the CDC, and should not be viewed as a standalone measure of autism prevalence.
Why is autism increasing?
Results showed that Autism Spectrum Disorder prevalence was highest among children aged 5 to 8, reaching 30.3 per 1,000 children in 2022—about the same as the most recent CDC prevalence rate.
Among adults, the prevalence was notably low, particularly in those aged 45 and older. However, young adults aged 26 to 34 saw the sharpest rise in diagnoses, with rates increasing by 450% over the study period.
The reported increase in autism cases over recent decades is a complex phenomenon that can be attributed to several key factors:
- Improved Diagnosis and Recognition: One of the most significant factors is better diagnostic criteria and increased awareness among healthcare providers. The definition of autism has expanded over time to include a broader spectrum of presentations, now known as ASD. Healthcare professionals are better trained to recognize autism’s signs and symptoms, particularly in previously under-identified groups like younger females and adults.
- Changes in Diagnostic Criteria: The diagnostic criteria for autism have evolved substantially. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) merged previously separate conditions like Asperger’s syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) into the single category of ASD. This consolidation has naturally led to more individuals falling under the autism diagnosis.
Earlier Identification: Children are now being evaluated for autism at younger ages, with reliable diagnosis possible as early as 18-24 months. This earlier identification means more children are receiving diagnoses who might have previously gone unrecognized until later in life or missed diagnosis altogether.- Increased Access to Services: Greater availability of developmental screening services and improved access to healthcare in many regions has led to more children being evaluated for developmental concerns. Additionally, schools and healthcare systems have implemented better screening protocols.
- Cultural and Social Factors: There is greater social acceptance and understanding of autism, which has reduced stigma and encouraged more families to seek evaluation and diagnosis. Media coverage and public discourse about autism have also increased awareness and understanding.
- Potential Environmental Factors: While more research is needed, some studies suggest that environmental factors might play a role in autism risk. These could include advanced parental age, certain prenatal conditions, and exposure to specific environmental factors during pregnancy. However, the evidence for many of these factors is still being investigated.
Problems with Autism Diagnosis
It’s important to note that the increase in reported cases doesn’t necessarily mean that autism itself is becoming more common. Many experts believe that autism has always been present at similar rates but was previously underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
Reasons Why Autism Rates are Rising
The apparent increase likely reflects a combination of better recognition, expanded diagnostic criteria, and improved access to diagnostic services rather than a true increase in the condition’s occurrence.
Thomas Fryar, LPC-A and therapist at Prasad Counseling says, “Autism rests on a spectrum and its impact on quality of life is something that depends on several factors such as the level of autism and the coping strategies that the individual personally knows. Also, while individuals with autism do not automatically perform certain processes, these are still things they can learn to do like any other skill.”
Katelyn Dade, LPC-A and therapist at Prasad Counseling adds, “The increasing prevalence of autism diagnoses can be attributed to several factors from a clinical perspective. First, there has been a significant improvement in awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), leading to more individuals, including those with milder forms of the condition, being identified and diagnosed.
Clinicians are now more adept at recognizing a broader range of symptoms across the spectrum, from non-verbal to highly functioning individuals, allowing for the identification of ASD at younger ages, which was not always the case in the past. Environmental influences, such as changes in parental age, prenatal health, and exposure to certain chemicals, have also been suggested as contributing factors, although definitive evidence is still limited.
Understanding these factors is crucial for healthcare planning, educational services, and support systems to better serve individuals with autism and their families.”
At Prasad Counseling and Training we have two therapists who work with children and adults who have ASD. Those therapists have immediate availability and are paneled with Cigna and some versions of Aetna. Learn more about the many available treatments for autism at our Houston therapy office. Reach out to us to learn about counseling options for people of all ages.
