Current prevalence estimates suggest 1 in 59 people are on the autism spectrum [1], which equates to approximately 82,000 New Zealanders meeting the diagnostic criteria for autism.
Rather, New Zealand statistics are based on data reported in other countries and generalised to our population. Based on international data, it is estimated between 1-2% of people in New Zealand are autistic.
Key Autism Statistics & Facts
In 2023, the CDC reported that around 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. Autism prevalence has increased 178% since 2000. The country with the highest rate of diagnosed autism in the world is Qatar, and the country with the lowest rate is France.
Perhaps the most significant of these is that there are now 205,200 people with autism in Australia, a rise of 25.1% since the last survey in 2015 (164,000 people). This figure means that 0.08% of the total population can be considered as being on the spectrum in this country.
Autism is one of the disabilities for which the New Zealand government provides funding.
Level 1: Requiring support
A person with level 1 autism requires the least amount of support. Level 1 social communication characteristics may include: trouble understanding or complying with social conventions. the appearance of disinterest in social interactions.
Asperger's Syndrome comes under the banner of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). It is often called high functioning autism, as the individual may have many autistic spectrum disorder symptoms (aspergers symptoms) but has a normal range IQ and is able to learn at school. A diagnosis needs to be made by a paediatrician.
So, why are the rates of autism increasing? Greater awareness. The primary reason that the rates of autism have increased is greater awareness of autism.
Clonakilty in County Cork, Ireland, and Austin in Minnesota, United States are two communities that have chosen to embrace neurodiversity, and more specifically, autism.
Risk Factors
Having a sibling with ASD. Having certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis. Experiencing complications at birth. Being born to older parents.
If someone in your family has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you may be more likely to have a child with ASD. ASD can look very different from person to person, so taking a careful family health history can be important for early diagnosis.
The country with the highest rate of diagnosed autism in the world is Qatar, and the country with the lowest rate is France. About 4 times as many boys are diagnosed with autism as girls. The rate of autism in the U.S. in 2022 is 1 in 100, compared to 1 in 150 in 2000.
“Kura Urupare” is the Maori word for autism and it means “Gift/Treasure in around your head”.
Autism has a prevalence rate of around 1% among the Chinese population. Autism was first recognized as a neurological disability in 2006. Since 2006, China has passed a number of laws to ensure the state service and inclusion of autistic individuals.
In Northern Europe recent studies (since 1999) found an average ASD prevalence rate of 18.8/10,000. In the United States and Canada recent studies (since 2000) found an average ASD prevalence rate of 21.6/10,000. In China there was an average ASD prevalence rate of 11.6/10,000.
Holidays can be stressful for neurodiverse people, but Mesa, Arizona, is becoming more inclusive so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of travel – not just the neurotypical.
Research suggests that autism genes are usually inherited from the father, despite some research showing it's passed down from the mother.
Autism is strongly genetic
The risk of having another affected child is estimated to be around 1 in 5. Family members of a person with autism also tend to have higher rates of autistic traits.
Parents of children with autism can apply for two payments, one that's means-tested and one that isn't. Once you receive your child's diagnosis it is worth calling Centrelink and asking what you are entitled to.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention.
Another report compares the range of average life expectancy for autistic people from 39.5 years to 58 years, to the global average of 72 years.
A child with mild autism can ultimately lead a very “normal”, productive, and independent life. With early intervention, a child with autism can learn the skills needed for successful navigation in communication and social interaction with peers in school.