In the United States, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that between 1 in 80 and 1 in 240 children, or on average 1 in 110 children, suffer from an autism spectrum disorder, “ASD” (Nirv, Shah 2011). According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, up to six in 1,000 children may be diagnosed with autism. Additionally, boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism. This means that up to 1.5 million Americans are estimated to have some form of autism today. Unfortunately, the numbers appear to be increasing rapidly. Autism is a disability that commonly appears during the first three years of life. It is the result of a neurological disorder that affects brain function and impacts normal brain development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills (Bee & Boyd, 2009). It is the most common developmental disorder today. Autism is one of five disorders grouped under the umbrella of pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by "severe and pervasive impairment in multiple areas of development," including social interactions and communication skills (Zager, 2006). The etiology of autism is a controversial topic of debate, as researchers strive toward a common goal. The goal is to identify the cause of autism to understand the complex interaction between environment and genetic regulation (NCBI, 2009). Although autistic people have existed for many centuries, it was not until the mid-20th century that they were recognized and labeled. Therefore, early detection, intervention and an individual educational plan are essential for the progression of ASD.The etiology of ASD...... middle of article ......teristics-of-l autismMuhle R, Trentacoste SV, Rapin I. Pediatrics. May 2004; 113(5):e472-86. Retrieved from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19774457National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Autism Information Page. Retrieved from: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/autism/autism.htmRichards, S., Taylor, R., Smiley, L. 2009; Exceptional Students: Preparing Teachers for the 21st Century. TARGET: Texas Guide to Effective Teaching, Instructional Implications. Texas State Leadership for Autism Training (March 2009). Retrieved from: http://www.txautism.net/docs/Guide/Introduction/EducationalImplications.pdfAutism Spectrum Disorders. Retrieved from: http://www.yourlittleprofessor.com/spectrum.htmlBibliography on iodine and autism. Retrieved from: http://gingerjens.blogspot.com/p/bibliography-on-iodine-and-autism.html