Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by three primary areas of impairment: social interaction, communication, and restricted and repetitive patterns of interest or behavior (Centers for Disease Control 2008). It is among a spectrum of disorders (ASDs) with symptoms that may range from quite severe (autistic disorder) to relatively mild (Asperger syndrome). With improved surveillance and a broadening of the diagnostic criteria, the most recent prevalence studies suggest that ASDs may affect as many as 1 in 150 children in the U.S. making it one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders (NCBI 2008). ASDs are most often diagnosed before age four, and are at least three to four times more frequent in males than females (NCBI 2008).
