How Has the Autism Rate Increased from 1 in 36 to 2 to 4 Cases per 10,000 Children in the 1970s?

It is a common misconception that autism rates have skyrocketed over the past few decades. Many wonder how the estimated 2 to 4 cases per 10,000 children in the 1970s transformed into 1 in 36 children in America being diagnosed with autism in 2020. However, the rise in numbers is not due to a mutation in genetics but rather an enhanced understanding of the disorder by the medical community (MC).

Historical Context of Autism

Technically, historically, 1 in 36 people did indeed have autism, it just took the MC a longer time to recognize it accurately. With a closer examination of certain behaviors as symptoms and the differentiation between personality-driven actions and behavioral symptoms, experts realized that autism was not as rare as previously believed.

Distinguishing Symptoms

It is crucial to understand the difference between individuals who turn conversations back to themselves due to self-centeredness, unlike genuine interpersonal communication, and those who focus on specific, repetitive topics due to a different wiring of the brain. People with autism are often very interested in these topics and are trying to connect with others.

Difference Between Not Listening and Inattention:

Not everyone comprehends the distinction between someone who doesn't listen because they are deliberately ignoring information and someone who can't focus due to overwhelming information coming in without the ability to prioritize it. The latter is not a sign of rudeness; it is a neurological difference that cannot be helped.

Evolution of Diagnostic Criteria

The rise in autism diagnoses can be attributed to changes in syndrome definitions and the revision of diagnostic criteria. Previously, a variety of conditions were considered distinct but were later recognized as forms of autism. Consequently, the older, narrower definitions were revised to accommodate a wider range of diagnoses on the autism spectrum. These changes have led to an increase in the number of diagnoses, not an increase in the number of children with autism.

Syndrome Definitions and Diagnosis Changes:

When the medical community began to dig deeper into the root causes of these conditions, it became clear that they were all variations of autism. This realization altered the definitions and criteria for diagnosing these conditions, resulting in a broader spectrum. This does not signify an increase in the prevalence of autism but rather a more accurate and inclusive way of identifying it.

It is essential to understand that the percentage of people with difficulties remains unchanged. The increase in numbers is merely a result of better diagnostic practices and a deeper understanding of the spectrum.

Conclusion

The increase in autism diagnoses is not due to genetic mutations but rather improved medical understanding. The evolution in the medical community's ability to recognize and diagnose autism has led to a more comprehensive understanding of the spectrum. This has resulted in an increase in diagnoses, predominantly due to revised definitions and diagnostic criteria, not a change in the actual number of individuals with the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can autism be diagnosed from 1970s? Yes, but the medical community had not yet developed the awareness and diagnostic tools to accurately identify and recognize autism. Is the increase in autism diagnoses due to genetic factors? No, the increase is due to a better understanding of the condition and more sensitive diagnostic criteria. How has the spectrum of autism evolved? The spectrum has evolved as different conditions were recognized as variants of autism, leading to a more inclusive and accurate diagnostic framework.

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