Autism diagnoses have surged dramatically over the past two decades, rising from 1 in 150 children in 2000 to 1 in 31 children by 2022. This sharp increase has prompted debates among experts about whether the rise is due to improved detection, broader diagnostic criteria, or an actual increase in the disorder’s prevalence. During a press conference in Washington, D.C., health officials addressed the topic, emphasizing the need for better understanding, early intervention, and potential new treatments.
Dr. Steven Quay, a physician-scientist and founder of Atossa Therapeutics, noted that autism is no longer an obscure condition but has become a common part of daily life in schools and families. He pointed to improved awareness, expanded definitions, and more accessible screening as key factors in the rising numbers. However, he also suggested that environmental factors, from prenatal exposures to changes in maternal health, play a role in the increase.
Dr. Aggie Papazyan, a psychologist specializing in autism spectrum disorder, stressed that while awareness and detection have improved, there is no new ‘autism epidemic’—the surge may be more related to changing diagnostic practices. She called for greater funding for early intervention programs and expanded diagnostic services, especially in underserved communities. She also warned that the lack of support for autistic adults is a growing issue.
Experts are also exploring potential new treatments, including a cancer drug that may be repurposed as an autism therapy. However, they emphasized that the rise in diagnoses is unlikely to be due solely to better detection, as many individuals were previously mislabeled or overlooked. As we look ahead, experts suggest that autism prevalence will continue to rise before plateauing, depending on the identification and mitigation of environmental factors.