Autism Spectrum Disorder

Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder

As the leading pediatric health organization in the United States, the American Academy of Pediatrics is uniquely positioned to provide support and evidence-based guidelines to pediatricians caring for children and youth with ASD.

The Academy's Council on Children with Disabilities (COCWD) Autism Subcommittee (ASC) serves as the main point of contact for the Academy on issues related to care of children and families with ASD. The COCWD ASC provides evidence-based guidance specific to caring for children and youth with ASD and facilitates the translation of evidence-based guidance into education, practice, policy and advocacy for pediatricians, caregivers, and the public. More information  about the subcommittee is provided here.

Here you will find information about ASD tools and resources for pediatricians, and ASD resources for parents, families, and caregivers are available on the AAP parenting website, HealthyChildren.org.

Quick Facts

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 36 children 8 years of age has been identified with a diagnosis of ASD.
  • CDC: Autism rate rises to 1 in 36 children (AAP News, 2023).
  • Prevalence and Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder Among Children Aged 8 Years — Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, 11 Sites, United States, 2020
  • Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder Among Children Aged 4 Years — Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, 11 Sites, United States, 2020
• Children of all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups are reported to have ASD.
• Autism Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (CDC)

AAP Recommendations

The AAP recommends that all children be screened for ASD at ages 18 and 24 months, along with regular developmental surveillance. Toddlers and children should be referred for diagnostic evaluation when increased risk for developmental disorders (including ASD) is identified through screening and/or surveillance. Children should be referred for intervention for all identified developmental delays at the time of identification and not wait for an ASD diagnostic evaluation to take place.

Executive Summary: Identification, Evaluation, and Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Identification, Evaluation, and Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Promoting Optimal Development: Identifying Infants and young Children With Developmental Disorders Through Developmental Surveillance and Screening