The results of a study published today in the journal Pediatrics found that one in every 91 children ages 3 to 17 have autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The figure is startling because up to now, it was believed that autism affected 1 in 150 children.

Experts are advising people not to panic, as the new numbers may just be an indication of growing awareness about the disorder. Increased awareness will have a positive impact on further research for the autism spectrum disorders.

Autism is one of a group of serious developmental problems called autism spectrum disorders (ASD) that appear in early childhood — usually before the age 3. Symptoms and severity vary but all autism disorders affect a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Although there is no cure for autism, intensive, early treatment can make an enormous difference in the lives of many children with the disorder.

Some interesting autism facts include:

• Boys are four times as likely as girls to have ASD.
• Black and multiracial children are less likely than white children to have the disorder.
• An estimated 673,000 children have ASD in the United States.

Early in his presidency, Obama announced an increase in spending on autism research by the National Institutes of Health by 16%, or an additional $1 billion over the next eight years.

Want to do something about autism? Get some inspiration from some DS projects:

• Nicholas started Autism Awareness because he wanted to give his autistic brother Joey a voice. Nicholas created a button that states "I'm not misbehaving I have autism please be understanding.” Now when Joey wears the button, people offer him the support and kindness Joey needs.