April is National Autism Awareness Month
In order to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness about autism, the Autism Society has been celebrating National Autism Awareness Month since the 1970s. The United States recognizes April as a special opportunity for everyone to educate the public about autism and issues within the autism community.
Professional Development Resources, a proud member of the Autism Society, is offering 25% off all Autism continuing education courses during the month of April to promote education and awareness.
Autism is More Common Than Previously Thought
New research showing one in 88 U.S. children have autism spectrum disorders is focusing national attention on the need for earlier diagnosis and treatment, especially in rural and minority communities.
Figures released Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show a 23% increase in autism spectrum cases from 2006 to 2008, and 78% increase since 2002.
“Clearly, we have a national emergency and clearly, we need a national plan,” said Mark Roithmayr, the president of Autism Speaks. “It’s time for us as a nation to see these numbers for what they truly are, and for us as a nation to commit to doing much more than we’ve done for date.”