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disabilities, speech and language impairments and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

In addition, there are a wide range of programs and services available to children and adults diagnosed with ASDs and their family members and caregivers. There are support groups, like Autism Society of America Chapters as well as groups like AutismSource which provide information listings on thousands of resources nationwide. Government programs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) offer a cash benefit to qualifying disabled individuals. The Medicaid Waiver program, in which income is waived in determining eligibility for Medicaid, can provide in-home services and treatment.

Insurance programs like the military's Tri-Care is beginning to cover services such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a highly effective, results-based therapy that is recommended by the Surgeon General and the New York State Department of Health Clinical Practice Guidelines. Speech and occupational therapy are also often used, as well as Floortime approach and TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication-handicapped Children) methods.

Early diagnosis is key. Support for families and diagnosed individuals is essential. Though there is currently no cure, therapy and treatment can make an incredible difference. Many people suffering from ASDs are able to live independently as adults, some with little or no assistance.

Bibliography:
Autism Society of America: The Voice of Autism. 25 August 2007
http://www.autism-society. org/site/PageServer?pagename=a bout_whatis_factsstats

"Frequen tly Asked Questions Prevalence" Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 25 August 2007.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd /autism/faq_prevalence.htm

"Ser vices for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder" Easter Seals and Autism. 25 August 2007
http://www.easterseals.com /site/PageServer?pagename=reus _autism_service

"CDC Releases New Data on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) from Multiple Communities in the United States" Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 25 August 2007
http://www.cdc.gov/od/oc/m edia/pressrel/2007/r070208.htm

"Is Autism on the Rise" About.com: Autism. 25 August 2007.
http://autism.about.com/o d/causesofautism/p/ontherise.h tm

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