Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life.
Autism is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain.
Autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 1 in 500 individuals. Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls. Autism knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family income, life-style, and educational levels do not affect the chance of its occurrence. Autism interferes with the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.