1. By: Courtney Jones and Emily Picone
Autism
By: Courtney Jones and Emily Picone

2. What is Autism?
This disorder is characterized in varying degrees by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors
Autism can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention, and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances
Some excel in visual skills, music, math, and art

3. How common is Autism?
1 in 68 American children are on the Autism spectrum
Autism affects over 3 million individuals in the US and tens of millions worldwide
Boys are 4 to 5 times more likely to have Autism than girls

4. What causes Autism?
Most cases appear to be caused by a combination of Autism risk genes and environmental factors influencing early brain development
Autism risk factors (non-genetic): older parental age, maternal illness during pregnancy and certain difficulties during birth

5. What does it mean to be “on the spectrum”?
Each individual with Autism is unique
Many have exceptional abilities in visual, academic, and musical skills
About 40% have average to above average intellectual abilities
Many on the spectrum take pride in their distinctive abilities
Others with Autism have significant disability and are unable to live independently
About 1/3 of people with Autism are nonverbal but can learn to communicate in other ways