In April 2025, the CDC released new data showing that 1 in 31 children are now identified with autism spectrum disorder. For many parents, this statistic can stir up a mix of emotions. If you're wondering what this means for your child, your family, or the broader community, you're not alone.

In response, we’ve compiled some important facts below to provide clarity, context, and support:

• What the Numbers Mean: The data comes from the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, which tracked 8-year-old children across 16 U.S. communities.
• No Known Geographic Risk: Living in a particular area does not increase a child’s chances of having autism. Differences in rates from one place to another are often due to how children are evaluated, diagnosed, and supported locally.  
• Gender Differences: Autism has consistently been identified more often in boys than in girls. This may be due to biological factors, but also because autism can present differently in girls and may be harder to recognize.
• Shifting Racial and Ethnic Patterns: For the first time in 2020, and continuing in 2022, Asian or Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and Black children were identified with autism at higher rates than White children. These shifts reflect progress in reaching historically underserved communities through better screening and access to care.

While the number of children diagnosed has increased over the years, much of this rise reflects better awareness, expanded diagnostic criteria, and improved screening. That is a demonstration of real progress, and progress is hope.

We hope these facts bring a bit more understanding and reassurance. Behind every number is a child, a family, and a unique story, and we are here to walk alongside you through it.