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Early treatment for autism can make a difference in your child’s development

	Nothing you have done as a parent could have caused your child’s autism, but there is a lot you can do with the help of health professionals to make a difference in your child’s life. Turn to ConsumerReportsHealth.org to better understand the causes and symptoms of autism and the best treatments for your child.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today and find out which behavioral therapy, educational techniques and medication rate best for treating autism.

Consumer Reports Health explains the best and most up-to-date expert research and evidence about treating autism. Our clear and sound advice helps you and your doctor choose the best treatment options.

Key points about autism

• If your child has autism, they may not learn to speak at the usual age.
• He or she may have set ways of behaving and may do the same activity over and over again.
• Usually, these signs show up before your child is 3 years old.
• We don’t know what causes autism. But it's linked to how your child’s brain works.
• About 6 in 1,000 children have an autistic spectrum disorder. That means they have autism or a related condition.
• Autism affects about four times as many boys as girls.
• Your child will always have autism, but getting treatment early can help make a difference in your child's development.

On the outside, children with autism usually grow and look like other children. But because their brain functions differently, they don't develop the skills they need to get along well with others or to keep up in school. Your pediatrician will often diagnose autism when your child is between 2 and 3 years old, but you may recognize potential signs of autism earlier. Your pediatrician will be part of a multidisciplinary team of health workers who will assess, support and treat your child according to their individual needs.

We encourage you to read our entire condition report and to consult with your child’s doctor to decide which treatments for autism are right for your child. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, you will have access to our expert research and recommendations, and you will be more confident and knowledgeable about treatments that best suit your child's needs. We'll also help you sort through the best research and the most effective treatments for over 100 conditions and illnesses that may affect you and your family.