Autism Rates Continue to Rise - Let's Do More than Research
by David S. Williams III, Co-Founder & CEO, Care3
Today the CDC published new autism incidence rates. From CNN.com:
US autism rate continues to rise, CDC says, pointing to greater awareness and better screening
About 1 in every 31 children was diagnosed with autism by age 8 in 2022, up from 1 in 36 in 2020, according to the CDC report that published Tuesday. Rates varied widely by gender, race and geographic area.
One of my complaints about the major autism advocacy groups is that they focus almost exclusively on raising funds for research rather than supporting those living with autism.
Research is certainly needed with data suggesting 60-80% of autism has genetic components. But treatment is still based on understanding how autism and its spectrum of behaviors presents in the real world. Behavioral research, support programs, and funding for community integration are imperative in mapping how people with autism can thrive and contribute to society.
Those of us who have children with autism know that everyone is different. Medications and supplements work for some and not for others. Behavioral therapies click with one person, but the next five have zero effect. Cracking the code on what works clinically and behaviorally for as many people as possible should also be a major advocacy talking point. In my opinion, it isn’t.
In the article shared above, there are quotes from leading “experts” in advocacy organizations including Autism Speaks, Autism Society, and more. The author attempts to balance the “funding for research” bullhorn with the call-to-action to support people living with ASD today..
I have two children on the autism spectrum. My son, who is more severe, has measurably improved by more than 40% over the years. My daughter who is high functioning has improved as well, achieving an ATEC score that is almost neurotypical–a score that would mean “recovery” in her case.
These results are no accident. We have developed and deployed a clear method to achieve results that many in the medical circle have said were impossible. Care3 was built as a company to help people to achieve extraordinary outcomes–what some call miracles.
If you, or someone you know, is dealing with a loved one with autism and wants to learn more, contact me. I’d be happy to share our method and how following this path led to extraordinary outcomes for my children.