The most current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data estimates that 1 in 150 (6.6 per 10,000) eight year olds has an Autism Spectrum Disorder. An Autism Spectrum Disorder includes Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, Autistic Disorder, and Asperger's Disorder.

The most recent research includes fourteen states, but not Tennessee. The estimated rates in surrounding states participating in the most recent research conducted in 2002 are: Arkansas (6.9 per 1,000), Alabama (3.3 per 1,000), Georgia (6.5 per 1,000), Missouri (7.3 per 1,000), North Carolina (6.5 per 1,000), South Carolina (6.3 per 1,000), West Virginia (4.5 per 1,000). Interestingly, New Jersey rated highest in the states included in the study, with 10.6 per 1,000!

Autism is more prevalent than juvenile diabetes (1 in 400 to 500 children), childhood cancer (1.5 per 10,000), or Down Syndrome (1 per 800 births).

SOURCE: ADDM Community Report cdc.gov