Autism affects many parts of the brain, but how this occurs is poorly understood. Parents usually notice warning signs in the first year or two of their child's life. Early intervention may help children gain self-care and social skills, though only a very few of these interventions are supported by scientific studies; there is no cure. With severe autism independent living is unlikely, but with milder autism there are some success stories as adults, and an autistic culture has developed, with some seeking a cure and others believing that autism is simply another way of being.
Autism is distinguished by a pattern of symptoms rather than one single symptom. The main characteristics are impairments in social interaction, impairments in communication, restricted interests and repetitive behavior. Other aspects, such as atypical eating, are also common but are not essential for diagnosis.
The media is filled with stories of a dramatic rise in autism diagnoses. Parents worry that any difference in their child's behavior or development could be a sign of a lifelong disability. Sometimes these worries are unnecessary. Other times, careful observation can lead to early diagnosis, early treatment, and, with luck, a positive outcome.
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