Diagnosis and Prevalence of ASD

ASD is typically diagnosed based on a combination of behavioral assessments and developmental history. Key diagnostic criteria include:

1. Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, such as:
   • Difficulties in social-emotional reciprocity
   • Challenges in nonverbal communicative behaviors
   • Problems in developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships
2. Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, which may include:
   • Stereotyped or repetitive motor movements
   • Insistence on sameness or routines
   • Highly restricted interests
3. Symptoms must be present in the early developmental period, although they may not become fully manifest until social demands exceed limited capacities.
4. Symptoms cause significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The prevalence of ASD has been increasing over the years, with estimates suggesting approximately 1 in 36 children diagnosed with ASD in the United States as of 2023. Factors contributing to this rise may include:

• Increased awareness and understanding of ASD
• Broader diagnostic criteria
• Improved access to diagnostic services

The prevalence can vary by region, gender (with males being diagnosed more frequently than females), and other demographic factors.