Scientists baffled as autism cases soar in state, with no relief in sight [View All]

Someone requested that I post this here, I also posted it in the California forum earlier. Scary article.


Scientists baffled as autism cases soar in state, with no relief in sight
Treatment centers, schools inundated by kids needing help

Katherine Seligman, Chronicle Staff Writer

Friday, February 4, 2005

California's mysterious explosion of autism cases worsened in 2004, disappointing researchers who had hoped the number of new diagnoses would level off as they searched for an explanation for the neurological disorder.

The number of people treated for autism at regional centers operated by the state Department of Developmental Services increased 13 percent last year from 2003, according to agency figures.

Autism now accounts for a little more than half of the new cases handled at the centers, which treat a variety of developmental problems. An average of nine new autism cases a day come to the state's attention, the vast majority in children 13 and younger.

Scientists have various theories, but there is little agreement about what is driving the growth of autism cases in California. The number of autistic people getting services at the centers has increased from 5,000 in 1993 to more than 26,000 now.

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http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2005/02/04/MNGH2B60I41.DTL