7th Annual WML Academic Symposium

Presenter(s): Danielle Barefoot and Sarah McGrath
Title: A Cross-Sectional Study of Childhood Autism/Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis from 2006 through 2015
Developed under the guidance of Dr. Charles Carter , Clinical Research

"This cross-sectional observational study examined the prevalence of autism/autism spectrum disorder in the United States. The study population included 115,158 subjects between ages 1-18 years from the National Health Interview Survey (2006-2015). Primary analysis demonstrated significant growth in autism/ASD prevalence over the study years (0.8% in 2006-2010, 1.2% in 2011-2013, 2.1% in 2014-2015; p less than 0.0001). Secondary multivariable analyses also demonstrated gender, race, ethnicity, highest educational level of a family member, and family structure were significant factors associated with the diagnosis of autism/ASD. We conclude the prevalence of autism/ASD is increasing and the association to risk factors requires consideration and further study. "