2. About 40% of children with autism do not speak. About 25%-30% of children with autism are able to speak some words at 12-18 months of age but then lose them. Other might speak, but not until later in childhood.
3. Autism is the fastest growing development disorder, yet the most underfunded. More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined.
4. 35% of young adults, ages 19-23, with autism have not had a job or received postgraduate education after leaving high school.
5. Autism is not a hopeless condition. It is treatable but early prevention is key. An early prevention plan for children with Autism, some as young as 18 months, is effective for improving IQ, language ability, and social interaction.