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In 1942, French-Algerian author Albert Camus' most acclaimed novel The Outsider' offered us fascinating insights into Existentialism. Through the eyes of Meursault, Camus' ill-fated protagonist, it simultaneously introduced millions of readers to the brave new world of autism. One year later, in 1943, Psychiatrist Leo Kanner released his seminal publication Autistic Disturbance of Affective Contact', which formally identified autism as an inborn developmental disability that impairs social and emotional understanding. Today, 64 years later, 1 child in every 150 is born with an autism spectrum disorder (CDC, 8/2/2007) and autism continues to have a profound impact on millions of families and communities worldwide. So what really is autism, and is it an epidemic?

According to the Autism Society of America, autism is the result of a neurological disorder that impairs brain development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills, with sufferers displaying difficulty in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Types of "autism spectrum disorder" range from autism, which can severely disable a child by interfering with speech and behavior, to Asperger's syndrome, a much milder behavioral problem, so autism affects each individual differently and at varying degrees. The following are some prominent facts and statistics about Autism from the Autism Society of America.

Autism:
o Affects 1 in 150 births;
o Affects 1-1.5 million Americans;
o Is the fastest growing developmental disability with 10-17% annual growth;
o Has a $90 billion annual cost worldwide; and
o Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

These facts and figures sound pretty grim, but it's not all bad news. While it is well-publicized that there is no cure for autism, the good news is that treatment and education can help to overcome some of the challenges associated with the condition.

In recent years, I've had the pleasure of observing first-hand the progress of one young man in particular who was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome 15 years ago. His name is Daniel, and under the guidance and direction of his wonderfully committed, dedicated and understanding mother, he has been able develop his communication skills to the extent that he can now stand in front of an audience and fluently deliver a pre-prepared 5-minute speech. And he does a pretty good imitation of Justin Timberlake on the dance floor too! Seriously, though, he has come a long way over the years.

It just goes to show that individuals can succeed within the confines of autism and even push the boundaries of their limitations, especially when treatment begins as early as possible and is tailored to the child's individual needs, strengths and weaknesses.

Learn more about this author, Jarrod Bayliss-McCulloch.
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