Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person thinks, communicates, interacts socially, and behaves
. It is characterized by:
- Challenges with social communication and interaction, such as difficulty understanding social cues or maintaining conversations
- Repetitive behaviors and restricted interests, including repeated movements or intense focus on specific topics
- Differences in sensory processing, which can affect how a person experiences their environment
Autism is a lifelong condition that begins in early childhood, typically showing signs before age 3, though symptoms and their severity vary widely among individuals
. Some autistic people may be nonverbal, while others have advanced language skills; some require significant support, while others live independently
. Autism is not an illness but a difference in brain functioning, often described as a form of neurodivergence
. It is highly heritable with multiple genetic factors involved, though environmental influences may also play a role
. Prevalence estimates suggest about 1 in 100 people worldwide are autistic, with variations depending on diagnostic criteria and awareness
. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes and support needs over a person's lifetime
. In summary, autism is a complex, varied neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication, behavior, and sensory processing, with a broad spectrum of presentations and support requirements
