Article written by Dr. Neeta Jain, pediatrician at Snoqualmie Valley Health.

What’s Behind the Rise in Autism Diagnoses?

With the number of autism cases increasing across the world—especially in the U.S.—the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s the cause? Is it something we’re doing? Feeding our kids? The environment? Screen time?

Awareness and Early Diagnosis Drive the Numbers

Some of the biggest contributing factors are increased awareness, early diagnosis, and the prevalence of early intervention.

We now know that an autism diagnosis is a modifiable diagnosis—meaning that over the course of a child’s life, the diagnosis can change depending on the therapies received and the progress made. There have been cases where non-verbal children have gained the ability to speak and express themselves. So, while an autism diagnosis can be life-changing, it doesn’t have to be hopeless.

How Autism Is Diagnosed

We use the DSM-5 criteria to diagnose autism, and the three major areas evaluated are:

• Communication
• Social interactions
• Repetitive movements

All of these must be affected in more than one setting.

Now, just because a child is delayed in speech but can engage in non-verbal communication, or has some behavioral or social challenges, doesn’t necessarily mean they are on the spectrum. Sometimes, with simple speech therapy, social interactions and behaviors improve significantly. That’s why early assessment is so important—so the right diagnosis and therapies can begin as soon as possible.

What Parents Can Do to Support Healthy Development

While we now understand that a large part of autism spectrum disorder is genetic—and not due to parenting styles—developmental pediatricians and behavioral health professionals still emphasize that one-on-one interactions between babies and caregivers, no screen time (especially under age two), and increased playtime and social interaction can be extremely beneficial to a child’s development.

Children thrive on structure—especially those on the autism spectrum—so maintaining consistent sleep, eating, and play schedules is crucial. Routine helps both children and caregivers because the child begins to anticipate what’s next, creating a sense of safety and predictability.

Understanding the Autism Spectrum

The autism spectrum is a broad umbrella, ranging from non-verbal children to individuals with Asperger’s, who may be highly verbal and intellectually gifted but struggle with social cues.

It’s also been observed that many children with autism have co-occurring mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression. This awareness is important, too.

Choose Compassion Over Judgment

In the end, remember these are bodies where the mind works well but there is a disconnect in the wires which connect the brain with speech, emotions, communication and expression. How difficult it must be for these little bodies to function in a complex world like ours.

So be kind, compassionate and patient with them. Know that they are not difficult and dangerous—they are trying, sometimes frustrated, and often scared.

Dr. Jain specializes in working with neurodivergent children and is currently accepting new patients. If you’re looking for compassionate, expert care tailored to your child’s unique needs, you can schedule an appointment online at snoqualmievalleyhealth.org or by calling our clinic at 425-831-2313.