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CE: From the CDC: Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Deborah Christensen1, Jennifer Zubler

  • 1Deborah Christensen is an epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta. Jennifer Zubler is a pediatric consultant at Eagle Global Scientific, San Antonio, TX. Contact author: Deborah Christensen, dchristensen@cdc.gov. The authors and planners have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

The American Journal of Nursing
|September 25, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication and behavior. Recognized today as a spectrum, it varies widely in severity and intellectual ability, with significant long-term impacts.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Pediatric neurology
  • Developmental psychology

Background:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by social communication impairments and restricted, repetitive behaviors.
  • Historically viewed as a distinct set of behaviors often with intellectual impairment, ASD is now understood as a spectrum.
  • It is a neurodevelopmental disorder with potential prenatal or early postnatal origins, impacting child development and carrying chronic, long-term consequences.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of autism spectrum disorder.
  • To discuss current understanding of ASD, including risk factors, epidemiology, and diagnosis.
  • To outline evaluation, treatment, and outcome considerations for ASD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of current research on ASD.
  • Discussion of epidemiological data and identified risk factors.
  • Overview of diagnostic criteria and assessment tools for ASD.

Main Results:

  • ASD is a spectrum disorder with significant variability in presentation and intellectual ability.
  • The majority of individuals with ASD have average or above-average intellectual capacity.
  • Understanding of ASD has evolved from a narrow definition to a spectrum concept.

Conclusions:

  • ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental condition requiring a spectrum-based approach.
  • Early identification, diagnosis, and intervention are crucial for managing ASD.
  • Ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of ASD risk factors, treatments, and long-term outcomes.

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