April 15, 2005
The Univeristy of Virginia Children's Hospital wants parents and teachers to be aware of a hidden epidemic in children.
They say autism now affects more children than cancer, diabetes, and Downs Syndrome combined. The Children's Hospital and the Virginia Institute of Autism are joining forces with the Center for Disease Control to raise awareness of this growing disorder.
Om Friday, April 15, the two organizations kicked off their "Learn the Signs, Act Early" campaign to promote early diagnosis and treatment of autism. In Virginia, known cases of children with autism have doubled in the last four years. There are now more than 4,000 children suffering from autism and the number continues to rise.
Local Organizations Promote Autism Awareness