Five Facts About Autism

What it is: Autism is the most common condition in a group of developmental disorders known as the autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).

Who is affected: Three to six children out of every 1,000 will have autism, experts say. Males are four times more likely to have autism than females.

What it does: Autistic children have difficulties with social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors or narrow, obsessive interests. These behaviors can range from mild to disabling.

What can help: Speech, occupational and physical therapy, as well as intensive behavioral services.

Other forms: Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (usually referred to as PDD-NOS).

Source: fresnobee.com (6/20/2009)