According to the Autism Society of America, autism interferes with the normal development of the brain in the areas of reasoning, social interaction, and communication skills, Children and adults with autism typically have deficiencies in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. The disorder makes it hard for them to communicate with others and relate to the outside world. It is conservatively estimated that nearly 400,000 people in the U.S. today have some form of autism. Unfortunately, many key individuals, including many professionals in the medical, educational, and other specialty areas, are still unaware of how to help children and adults with autism. It is now accepted that although autism is a lifelong developmental disability, it is a condition that can improve given proper treatment.
Early detection is critical.