AUTISM

Autism was first identified in 1943, but it appears to have existed throughout recorded history.

It occurs in all ethnic and social groups.

Our knowledge of autism has improved greatly, but there is no known cure.

We still do not know what causes autism, but it is thought to be a brain disorder.

Autism affects approximately one in five hundred Australians, with boys more likely to be affected than girls.

Autism is a developmental disability.

A person with autism will have difficulties in several areas of their development.

The areas most affected are communication, social interaction and behaviour.