A recent study published in JAMA Network Open highlights a staggering 175% increase in autism diagnoses in the U.S. from 2011 to 2022, particularly among certain demographic groups.

Researchers caution that the reported figures may underestimate the true prevalence of autism, especially among older women who may have gone undiagnosed in childhood.

The findings indicate a growing population of autistic individuals transitioning into adulthood, underscoring the urgent need for expanded healthcare services and targeted interventions.

The study notes that changes in developmental screening practices, diagnostic definitions, and environmental factors may also be influencing the rise in autism cases.

The study assessed autism prevalence across various populations categorized by age, race, ethnicity, and sex, identifying 77,683 participants diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The research, conducted by Luke P. Grosvenor and his team at Kaiser Permanente, analyzed over 1.2 million electronic health records from 12 U.S. health systems.

Increased advocacy and education are believed to have contributed to greater awareness about autism, encouraging more individuals to seek screenings and diagnoses.

Research suggests that social pressures may have previously led women to camouflage autistic traits, but changing attitudes may now allow more females to seek diagnoses.

Despite the increase in diagnoses among women, the study highlights the need for further research into the persistent male bias in autism diagnoses, including potential biological factors.

While disparities in autism diagnosis and treatment persist, there are signs of progress, particularly in improving access for minority communities.

The study also points out a 'services cliff' where adults lose access to essential therapies that were available during childhood, highlighting the need for improved transition services.

These findings align with data from the CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, which tracks autism rates in children, reinforcing the trend observed in the study.