Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects as many as 1 in 150 people, according to 2006 data from the Autism Society of America.
	According to U.S. Department of Education data, the number of children ages 6 to 21 served by the agency in 2003-04 compared to 1992-93 increased by 947 percent nationally and 805 percent in Alabama.
	Autism usually appears before a child reaches three years old and interferes with social communication skills.
	The severity of autism varies from those who need assistance in most aspects of daily life to others who function at high levels and attend school in regular classrooms.
	Autism is four to five times more prevalent in boys and affects people regardless of racial, ethnic or social factors.
	There is no single cause of autism; however, research suggests that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function.  Researchers are investigating a number of theories, including the link between heredity, genetics, environmental factors and medical conditions.
	Individuals with autism spectrum disorder respond well to highly structured, specialized education programs.
	Treatment options for individuals with autism include behavioral interventions; medications; special diets; vitamins and supplements; sensory integration; occupational, speech and physical therapy; and leisure and play therapy.
	There are no "typical" people with autism.  People with autism process and respond to information in unique ways and display a number of symptoms that may include resistance to change; difficulty in communicating needs and desires; repeating words or phrases in place of typical, responsive communication; indifference to others; little or no eye contact; sustained odd play or actions; inappropriate attachments to objects; and apparent over- or under-sensitivity to certain sounds, textures, smells and pain.