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4w ago

CDC Reports Record Autism Prevalence, Now 1 in 31 U.S. Children Diagnosed

New data from 2022 highlights rising diagnosis rates, demographic disparities, and the ongoing influence of improved screening practices.

In 2022, about 1 in every 31 children was diagnosed with autism by age 8, according to the CDC.
The North Portico of the White House is illuminated in blue for Autism Awareness Day, in Washington, U.S. April 2, 2020. REUTERS/Tom Brenner/File Photo
Image
A child listens to music and plays with a push pop toy while doing homework.

Overview

  • The CDC's latest report reveals that 1 in 31 U.S. 8-year-olds was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2022, up from 1 in 36 in 2020.
  • Autism prevalence has surged over the past two decades, attributed to improved detection, increased awareness, and expanded diagnostic criteria.
  • Boys are three times more likely than girls to be diagnosed, with higher rates also observed among Black, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander children compared to white children.
  • Geographic disparities in diagnosis rates persist, with higher prevalence in regions like suburban Philadelphia and San Diego, reflecting differences in screening practices and service availability.
  • Despite debunked claims by some officials, including HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., there remains no scientific evidence linking vaccines to autism.