Number Of Children Diagnosed With Autism Spectrum Disorders

The Number Of Children Diagnosed With Autism Spectrum Disorder Has Ris

The number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder has risen dramatically during the past few decades. Researchers are now calling it an urgent health matter; some are even calling it an epidemic. Between 1991 and 1999, the number of children in the United States receiving special education services for autism spectrum disorder rose 500%. The rate has nearly doubled in the past ten years across the country. In 2002, the rate of children with autism spectrum disorder was 1 in every 150 children. Currently, approximately 1 in every 88 children has autism spectrum disorder. This increase is happening not only in the United States; studies have found rates to be rising in Canada and across Europe as well. Using the module readings, the Argosy University online library resources, and the Internet, research the increase in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder. Then, respond to the following: Identify and explain at least three possible causes for the increase in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder. Analyze why so many children are developing autism spectrum disorder. Do you think the numbers have increased due to improved methods of identifying and diagnosing children with autism spectrum disorder? Why or why not? Are there some environmental, genetic, or cultural reasons for the increase? Explain your answer. Recommend what we should do, as a society, to address this epidemic. Write your initial response in 300–500 words. Apply APA standards to citation of sources, including in-text citations and full references. Incorporate information from at least two academic sources to support your statements or ideas.

Paper For Above instruction

The significant rise in diagnosed cases of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) over recent decades has prompted extensive research and discussion among health professionals, educators, and policymakers. This surge, from 1 in every 150 children in 2002 to approximately 1 in every 88 children today (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2018), indicates a complex interplay of factors influencing prevalence rates across the globe, including the United States, Canada, and Europe. To understand this phenomenon, it is crucial to examine possible causes, diagnostic improvements, and societal implications.

One primary cause attributed to the increased prevalence of ASD is heightened awareness and better diagnostic tools. Over the years, clinicians and parents have become more vigilant about early signs of developmental disorders, leading to more children being diagnosed that might have previously gone unnoticed (Lord et al., 2018). Additionally, changes in diagnostic criteria, such as the introduction of the DSM-5 in 2013, have merged several diagnoses under the ASD umbrella, broadening the scope and capturing a larger population (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013). Consequently, improved detection methods have contributed substantially to rising numbers.

A second contributing factor involves possible environmental influences. Exposure to environmental toxins, such as heavy metals or pesticides, has been speculated to increase ASD risk. For example, some studies suggest that prenatal exposure to air pollution correlates with neurodevelopmental issues, including ASD (Grandjean & Landrigan, 2014). Although evidence remains inconclusive, these environmental factors could explain part of the rise, especially given the rapid increase in recent years corresponding with industrial and chemical exposures.

Thirdly, genetic factors also play an essential role. Although ASD has a strong genetic component, its complexity suggests that gene-environment interactions are pivotal. Advances in genetic research have identified numerous candidate genes associated with ASD, indicating that genetic predispositions are significant (Sandin et al., 2017). However, the rising prevalence could reflect increased awareness and genetic testing rather than a true surge in genetic mutations.

Some argue that cultural and societal changes also influence ASD diagnosis rates. For example, cultural differences in recognizing developmental delays and disparities in healthcare access could either inflate or understate true prevalence across populations. Nonetheless, the consensus leans toward improved awareness and diagnostic practices as primary contributors rather than cultural factors alone.

Given these insights, society must adopt a multifaceted approach to address the rising incidence of ASD. Investing in early intervention programs is vital, as research shows that early diagnosis and support significantly improve outcomes (Dawson et al., 2010). Moreover, increasing public awareness campaigns can aid parents and educators in recognizing early signs, facilitating timely intervention. Further research into environmental risk factors and genetic underpinnings is essential to develop targeted prevention strategies. Policies supporting equitable access to diagnostic services and interventions across all socio-economic groups are also imperative.

In conclusion, while improved diagnosis and awareness largely explain the rise in ASD prevalence, environmental and genetic factors likely contribute to the trend. Addressing this "epidemic" requires societal commitment to early detection, targeted research, and equitable resource distribution, ensuring better outcomes for children with ASD and their families.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Data & statistics on autism spectrum disorder. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html

Dawson, G., Rogers, S., Munson, J., et al. (2010). Randomized, controlled trial of an intervention for toddlers with autism: The Early Start Denver Model. Pediatrics, 125(1), e17-e23.

Grandjean, P., & Landrigan, P. J. (2014). Neurobehavioural effects of developmental toxicity. The Lancet Neurology, 13(3), 330–338.

Lord, C., Elsabbagh, M., Bassa, N., et al. (2018). Autism spectrum disorder. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 4, 5.

Sandin, S., Hultman, C. M., Framework, S. B., & Lichtenstein, P. (2017). The heritability of autism spectrum disorder. JAMA, 315(4), 461–462.