No one knows how many people have autism, a neurological condition with a range of troubling behavioral, cognitive, and language-based symptoms. The most pervasive problems include difficulty with language and human interaction. Many experts agree that there has been a puzzling increase in autism cases, and no one has any hard evidence about the cause. The state report focused on children under 3. State officials say that the report should make assessment and diagnosis easier.
Studies show that the earlier a child receives help, the better the outcome.
The guidelines panel included doctors, psychologists, speech and language therapists, and parents. The panel spent two years analyzing the merits of dozens of studies to figure out what works best. The panel said that more than one assessment tool was needed for diagnosis, and that the assessment should involve several meetings with the child. Ultimately, diagnosis is based on the child's behavior. The panel did not recommend brain scans or an assessment of immune status, food allergies or diet.