Fact Sheet - Autism Spectrum Disorders

[ Press Release 2012-16 ]

Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of developmental brain disorders with a wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairment, or disability. A study by the National Epidemiological Database for the Study of Autism in Canada has found prevalence rates of 1 in 200 people to 1 in 300 people across Canada, although some North American studies have found even higher prevalence rates. There is a general agreement that the incidence of ASD is on the rise, but it remains undetermined if this increase is due solely to better diagnosis or if it is due to the impact of undefined environmental factors.

All children diagnosed with ASD demonstrate deficits in social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as display repetitive behaviors or interests. In addition, they will often have unusual responses to sensory experiences such as certain sounds or the way objects appear to them.
While there is no demonstrated single best treatment regime package for all children with ASD, it appears that they respond well to highly structured, specialized programs. It is generally agreed that early intervention is important.

New Chair in ASD Treatment and Care Research

The Government of Canada is partnering with organizations in the autism community to fund a new Chair in Autism Spectrum Disorders Treatment and Care Research with the aim of improving the lives of Canadian children and adults with ASD and their families.

The specific objectives are to:

  • engage stakeholders to determine the needs and gaps in ASD treatment and care
  • stimulate innovative research on ASD in children and adults
  • educate and mentor new ASD researchers
  • Facilitate the timely and effective application of research into health policies, programs and practices

The Chair will be selected through a competitive process administered by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). The competition will be open to both Canadian researchers and international researchers willing to relocate to a research institution in Canada.

Eligible researchers are invited to respond to a request for applications posted on the CIHR website.

Partners

Government of Canada:

  • Canadian Institutes of Health Research
  • Health Canada
  • NeuroDevNet

Partners from the Autism Community

  • Autism Speaks Canada
  • Canadian Autism Spectrum Disorders Alliance
  • Sinneave Family Foundation

Funding

The Government of Canada and its partners have committed $1 million over five years to support the Chair.

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