A version of this post was originally published on April of 2008.  Since then, we’ve discovered more about autism disorders, but there is still much to learn.  I encourage you to check out AutismSpeaks.org to learn more about autism and how you can get involved in educating your family and your community today.

April is Autism Awareness month. Until last year, I knew almost nothing about Autism. Now I have a very dear little person in my life who has been diagnosed with autism. Chances are that most people know someone that is affected by some autistic disorder. Here are some things that everyone should be aware of:

• 1 in every 110 children born today has autism.  1 in 70 are boys.
• Autism is a spectrum disorder meaning children diagnosed with autism will range from mild to severe.
• It is the fastest growing developmental disability.
• Boys are four times more likely than to girls to have autism .
• It is more common than twins. It is more common than AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined.
• Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases.

Many of these facts were found at the AutismSpeaks.org.  If you know someone with autism, then find out what you can do to increase others awareness.  Educate yourself so you can educate others.