What is Autism?
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause for autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.
In February 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDME autism prevalence report. The report, which looked at a sample of 8 year olds in 2000 and 2002, concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 150 American children, and almost 1 in 94 boys. The issuance of this report caused a media uproar, but the news was not a surprise to ASA or to the 1.5 million Americans living with the effects of autism spectrum disorder. Nonetheless, the spotlight shown on autism as a result of the prevalence increase opens opportunities for the nation to consider how to serve these families facing a lifetime of supports for their children.
Know the Signs: Early Identification Can Change Lives
Autism is treatable. Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes.
Here are some signs to look for in the children in your life:
- Lack of or delay in spoken language
- Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)
- Little or no eye contact
- Lack of interest in peer relationships
- Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
- Persistent fixation on parts of objects
For more information visit www.autism-society.org
Our Mission Statement:
The mission of the Fort Lewis - McChord AFB Autism Support Group is to promote access and opportunity for all individuals within the Autism Spectrum, and their families, to be fully participating, included members of their community. Education, advocacy, public awareness efforts and the promotions of research form the cornerstone of our activities. Our membership represents the military community (active/reserve component/retired), government officials/employees, and those who have been affected by Autism and are someway connected to Fort Lewis and McChord AFB. Embracing the diversity of our group, we strive to provide an open forum for the exchange of ideas. At the core of the Fort Lewis - McChord AFB Autism Support Group philosophy is the belief that no single program or treatment will benefit all individuals with Autism. Furthermore, the recommendation of what is "best" or "most effective" for a person with Autism should be determined by those people directly involved - the individual with Autism, to the extent possible, and the parents or family members. The Fort Lewis - McChord AFB Autism Support Group work in partnership with the Autism Society of America and the Autism Support Group of Tacoma in providing information and education to help in the process of awareness and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder.