Vol. 548 No. 2
269 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on whether there is an increase in the number of children being diagnosed with autism; the steps he has taken to investigate the occurrence of this condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4722/02]
There has been an increase in recent years in the numbers of children being diagnosed with autism. Similar increases have also been experienced in other European countries and in the USA. The diagnosis of autism is a clinical one, that is, it is based on a variety of observations rather than a defined laboratory investigation. Hence the evolving concept of an autistic spectrum which stretches from those severely affected to those with only a mild disability. There is increasing recognition of autism in Ireland and in other countries. What is not clear however is whether the increase is due to a greater awareness leading to better ascertainment or whether there is actually a true increase in the prevalence of autism.
