Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or autism, is a broad term used to describe a group of neurodevelopmental conditions. Major characteristics of these conditions are seen in communication and social interaction. People with ASD often demonstrate restricted and repetitive interests or patterns of behavior.
ASD may occur in anyone around the world, irrespective of race and ethnicity, culture, or economic background. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ASD is diagnosed more often in boys than in girls.
There are several signs that cases of autism are becoming prevalent. Most researchers attribute this increase to environmental factors even though some experts argue that there are just more frequent people trying to access diagnoses and the information is becoming widespread and it has nothing to do with an actual increase in cases.