CDC Data on Autism
Autism Prevalence: Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network
The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network is a group of programs funded by CDC to estimate the number of children with ASD and other developmental disabilities living in different areas of the United States. ADDM Network sites collect data from health and/or education records of 8-year-old children using the same methods across sites. They use these data to estimate the number of 8-year-old children identified with ASD. Community-level data are available for various communities across the United States for years 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2018.
Prevalence estimates can vary by type of data source because data are collected in different ways. Data collection methods differ across these sources, resulting in data gathered from various geographic locations, at different time points, among different age and racial/ethnic groups, and using different criteria to identify ASD. Because of these differences, findings typically vary across reported data sources, and it is not usually possible to compare findings.
Reported ASD Prevalence has Changed Over Time
The reported prevalence of ASD has been higher in recent years, and this trend is consistent across data sources. It is unclear how much this is due to changes to the clinical definition of ASD (which may include more people than previous definitions) and better efforts to diagnose ASD (which would identify people with ASD who were not previously identified). However, a true change in the number of people with ASD is possible and could be due to a combination of factors. Choose a data source below to see how prevalence estimates have changed over time.
Note: Hover your mouse over data points above to show prevalence by year.
ADDM Network data only represent a selection of sites within states (but not entire states) that were funded during each project cycle; therefore, data are not available for the entire United States.
**ADDM estimate = the total for all sites combined.
Understanding Trends and Changes in ASD Prevalence
Ongoing monitoring and reporting help us identify trends and changes in the number of people with ASD over time. To see these trends and changes, we can look at ASD prevalence
- Across multiple years,
- Across multiple data sources,
- In different geographic locations, and
- Among different demographic groups.
These findings can be used in local communities and nationwide to inform initiatives, policies, and research that help children and families living with ASD.
Reported ASD Prevalence Varies by Sex
Since the first ADDM reporting period (2000), ASD prevalence has been higher among boys than girls across all ADDM sites. There are no clear explanations for this difference. One consideration is that boys may be at greater risk for developing ASD. Another consideration is that ASD can have different signs and symptoms in boys versus girls. This can contribute to differences in how ASD is identified, diagnosed, and reported. Choose the data source below to see how prevalence estimates vary by sex.
For every 1 GIRL, 4.1 BOYS were identified with ASD.
Reported ASD Prevalence Varies by Ethnicity
Over time, ADDM reports have consistently noted that more non-Hispanic white children are identified with ASD than non-Hispanic black or Hispanic children. Previous studies have shown that potential barriers to identification of children with ASD, especially among Hispanic children, include
- Stigma,
- Lack of access to healthcare services due to non-citizenship or low-income, and
- Non-English primary language.
A difference in identifying non-Hispanic black and Hispanic children with ASD as compared to non-Hispanic white children with ASD means that some children with ASD may not be receiving the services they need to reach their full potential.
As of 2018, the ADDM Network found no overall difference in the percent of Black, White, Hispanic, and Asian or Pacific Islander 8-year-old children identified with ASD. However, at several sites, the percent of Hispanic children identified with ASD was lower compared with Black or White children. The decreasing racial and ethnic differences over time may be due to more effective outreach directed toward minority communities and efforts to have all children screened for ASD.
Choose the data source below and see how prevalence estimates vary by race/ethnicity.
Our Blog
Latest News & Resources
Working Together: How Parents Can Collaborate with School Teachers for the Benefit of their Autistic Child
The success of a child’s education is built on the collaboration between the family and school. For children with autism, this partnership becomes even more crucial. Their unique needs, strengths, and challenges make it essential for parents and teachers to work...
Back to School and Starting Fresh: Navigating School Transitions for Kids with ASD
As summer winds down and the scent of fresh pencils fills the air, the back-to-school season is upon us. For many families with children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this time can be filled with both anticipation and apprehension. Whether your child is...
Why Eye Contact May Be Difficult for Kids with Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is marked by a range of unique characteristics, which can manifest differently in every individual. One behavior often observed in many kids with autism is their avoidance of direct eye contact. For those unfamiliar with ASD, this may...
Empowering Voices: How Speech Therapy Helps Children with Autism Thrive
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of children worldwide, impacting their social interactions, communication skills, and behavior. For children with autism, expressing themselves verbally can be a significant...
Keeping Children with Autism Safe Around Water: Essential Tips and Strategies
The sound of a child's laughter as they splash around in a pool or at the beach is a joy that many parents cherish. Water play can be an incredibly stimulating and enjoyable experience for kids, but it does require a keen eye on safety, particularly for children on...
Unveiling the World of High-Functioning Autism: Embracing Neurodiversity
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a vast spectrum that encompasses a diverse range of individuals with unique strengths and challenges. Among the various classifications within ASD, high-functioning autism stands as a distinct and often misunderstood category. In this...
Questions about insurance ?
We support our clients with a dedicated insurance team member within our company — that has years of experience in managed care contracting, coding, authorizations and billing issues. We are your advocate and partner in maximizing the potential benefits of your insurance coverage.