Autism is nothing new. But the latest numbers show a trend that is new.
According to deep-dive video report by THV11, researchers in Arkansas have found that a whopping 1 in 62 Arkansas children are being diagnosed with autism. The number has increased from 1 in 84. The number is increasing.
Arkansas Autism Rates Revealed
Rates of autism are skyrocketing in America according to the CDC.
According to the CDC’s official numbers, 1 in 36 kids in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum.
Maya Lopez, who oversees developmental behavior pediatrics at UAMS, is helping compare research to what researchers are finding in Arkansas:
“I think the numbers are definitely increasing.”
After researching autism rates across 11 states, Lopez says among 4-year-old children in Arkansas, the rate is a whopping 1 in 62 are diagnosed with autism. This is up from 1 in 84.
When it comes to the reason behind that increase, Lopez suggests that increased awareness is spurring the jarring rise:
“It is true we are better at diagnosing. It is true that we have better tools. It is true that more people are aware.”
There’s a long waiting list for appointments over autism. Medical offices find themselves booked with children that possibly belong on the spectrum. It’s got medical experts hands’ full.
You can watch the video report yourself below:
Do YOU think autism should be researched more in Arkansas? Comment below!
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