Autism Rates in Utah Soar

Current rates of autism in Utah are among the highest in the nation and are growing at an astounding rate, costing millions of dollars.

Salt Lake City, UT. May 25, 2007--Among several states examined, Utah came out as having the third highest incidence of autism, and has a rate of autism 20 times higher than 20 years ago, according to a CDC study conducted. This high incidence rate of autism is pricey and is expected to cost millions of dollars, possibly billions. Research, however, offers some hope in the future.

1 in 133 children in Utah has autism, according to the CDC this year. In addition, this rate is 20 times higher than it was two decades ago. These high rates of autism cost Utah millions of dollars every year and it is estimated that costs for children diagnosed in Utah will be well over $20 billion over their lifetimes, according to Dr. Judith P. Zimmerman at the University of Utah. “Add into the equation the significant emotional strain placed on families and you will begin to understand why autism is an urgent public health issue and is believed by many people to be an epidemic.” added Zimmerman in a recent Press release.

The cause of autism is not known, but researchers are working hard on finding clues. The University of Utah, in collaboration with other institutions, is currently conducting the Autism Genome Project (AGP). Among other projects, they have identified a gene called neurexin 1, which may make its carriers more susceptible to autism. Researchers working on the APG are using a new technology called gene chip technology, which allows for genes to be out in a microchip, which allows researchers to compare thousands of DNA markers and compare chromosome regions shared by people with autism. This research is very important to autism. “By combining cutting-edge CNV analysis with more traditional linkage and association (analyses), the scientists now have a promising new framework to look for autism susceptibility genes,” says Andy Shih, the chief science officer for the national organization Autism Speaks, in a recent press release.
Until causes are determined and possibly a cure for autism, the CDC recommends that parents observe their children and watch for warning signs for autism. These warning signs include repeating words over and over instead of using regular language, avoiding eye contact, and trouble relating to others a complete list of warning signs can be found on the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/.

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