Study Denouncing Autism Epidemic Misses the Mark; ASA Calls for Studies Benefiting Families Now

Study Denouncing Autism Epidemic Misses the Mark; ASA Calls for Studies Benefiting Families Now

To: National Desk Contact: Kate Ranta of the Autism Society of America, 301-657-0881 ext. 120 or kranta@autism-society.org

BETHESDA, Md., April 5 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The Autism Society of America (ASA), the oldest and largest grassroots organization serving the entire autism community, in response to a study by Dr. Paul Shattuck appearing in next week's edition of Pediatrics titled "Diagnostic Substitution and Changing Autism Prevalence," says the study takes the focus away from the real issue: autism is affecting millions of people and families who need help today.

"We need to move away from a dialogue about prevalence," said ASA President & CEO Lee Grossman. "Whether it's one in 166 children or one in 1,166 being diagnosed with autism, each and every one of those affected today and in the future must be helped."

According to the study, the rise in number of autism diagnoses is not evidence of an epidemic, but shows that schools are diagnosing autism more often. Shattuck claims that autism rates have not increased over the last two decades, and children identified by U.S. school special education programs as mentally retarded or learning disabled have declined with the rise in autism cases between 1994 and 2003, suggesting a diagnostic substitution. Shattuck says there may be unknown environmental triggers behind autism, and his research suggests the past decade's rise in autism cases is a result of poor labeling.

ASA Board of Directors Chair Cathy Pratt, Ph.D., said that "in 30 years of working in the autism community, certain realities have become increasingly clear. More individuals are receiving a diagnosis on the spectrum. The needs of these individuals and their families continue to grow. And finally, the lack of options and resources place an incredible stress on all and threaten the future of these individuals. Any study that diverts our focus or that diminishes the perception of this need hurts us all. I know of no family who has enough resources for their child, nor any adult who has all the supports he or she needs."

Diane Twachtman-Cullen, Ph.D., co-chair of ASA's Panel of Professional Advisors, noted that "the findings of Dr. Shattuck's study do not support the conclusion that there is or is not an autism epidemic. If we read more into this study than the findings support, we will be doing a disservice to the significant number of individuals with autism and their families who aren't mere statistics in a study, but rather, real people with real needs."

Jim Ball, Ed.D., co-chair of ASA's Panel of Professional Advisors, added that regardless of Shattuck's study findings, more and more people are being diagnosed with autism and the focus must be on the services agenda.

"The fact remains that the numbers of those with autism have reached epidemic proportions, and we need to address this now," continued Grossman. "Let's put research into interventions, education and services for individuals with autism, not into a dispute about whether autism is being better labeled versus an epidemic."

---The Autism Society of America (ASA) is the leading voice and resource of the entire autism community in education, advocacy, services, research and support. The ASA is committed to meaningful participation and self-determination in all aspects of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. ASA accomplishes its mission through close collaboration with a successful network of 200 chapters, and hundreds of thousands of members and supporters.

For information, resources and practical strategies on autism visit:
www.AutismConcepts.com
www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com