8 Interesting Facts about Autism Spectrum Disorder

Posted by Melissa Robertson-Bye on

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that is marked by two unusual kinds of behaviors; shortage in communication and social skills, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. This disorder is found all over the world and affects all races, cultures, and economic backgrounds.


Chances are there is someone in your life who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While this diagnosis is becoming more and more common, here are some interesting facts about Autism that you might not know.


  1. Autism was first studied and written about by Dr Leo Kanner in the 1940’s. 
  2. ASD varies from person to person.  Autism is a spectrum disorder meaning symptoms can vary from and show themselves in different combinations and from mild to severe.
  3. Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. Researchers believe this is because girls show different symptoms than boys.
  4. Autism is more common than AIDS, diabetes and childhood cancer combined. Approximately 1 in 66 children are diagnosed in Canada per year.
  5. Early intervention is key. There is no cure for ASD, but early treatment can have a major impact on a child’s success. 
  6. Approximately 40% of children diagnosed do not speak which is why early intervention is important.
  7. History has many inspiring people that were/are on the spectrum: including Albert Einstein -  Scientist & Mathematician, Bill Gates - Co-founder of the Microsoft Corporation, Michelangelo – Sculptor, Painter, Architect, Poet; and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Classical Composer
  8. There is no single cause for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Some suspected risk factors for autism include; having an immediate family member with autism, genetic mutations, low birth weight, and exposure to heavy metals and environmental toxins. These are just a few of many possible causes.

What are some facts that you find interesting about Autism Spectrum Disorder?