1 in 31 Children in the United States Have Autism
Autism is a developmental disability which causes significant social, communication, medical, and behavioral challenges. Navigating these unique challenges often requires specialized care, which is a financial strain that falls heavily on both public systems and families’ own pockets.
$7 trillion
Cost from 1990 – 2019
$15 trillion
Expected cost by 2029
Source: Science Direct
Signs & Symptoms
The signs of autism vary widely from person to person. Some common areas where differences may appear include:
Repetitive Behaviors
Repetitive movements or speech, insistence on routines, highly focused interests, and sensitivity to sensory input.
Social Communication
Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation, sharing interests, understanding non-verbal cues, and developing relationships.
53%
have sleep issues affecting quality of life for both children and families.
4X
higher rates of unmet healthcare needs versus the general population.
39.6%
of individuals with autism also have an intellectual disability.
95%
of children with autism have at least one co-occurring condition on average.
49%
engage in elopement or wandering behaviors, which are a serious safety risk.
40X
more likely to die from a preventable injury compared to the general population.
49%
of adults with autism continue to live with their parents or family caregivers.
Life Expectancy
The gap in life expectancy between autistic and non-autistic individuals highlights the urgent need for better healthcare access and support.
Age 72
is the average life expectancy of an individual without autism.
Age 36
Average life expectancy of an individual with autism — 36 years shorter.
Help TACA Help The Next Family
Effective therapy and medical intervention improves outcomes and quality of life. When you support TACA, you help us empower the next family with the resources, community, and expert guidance they need.
