CDC Releases New Data on ASD Identification and Trends
The CDC’s latest autism prevalence report reveals that 1 in 31 children between the ages of 4 and 8 in the U.S. were identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 2022. The data, published through the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, also shows a significant increase in early identification and highlights persistent disparities across racial, ethnic, and income groups.
Key Takeaways from the 2025 CDC Autism Report
- ASD Prevalence: 1 in 31 among 4 through 8-year-olds (32.2 per 1,000)
- Improved Early Identification: Children born in 2018 were 1.7x more likely to be identified by age 4 than those born in 2014
- Disparities Persist: Higher ASD and intellectual disability rates among Black, Hispanic, and Asian children
- State-by-State Variability: Prevalence ranged from 9.7 per 1,000 (Laredo, TX) to 53.1 (San Diego, CA)
Why This Matters for Providers
This report highlights the growing demand for early screening, diagnosis, and support services—especially in underserved communities. Clinical leaders and provider organizations must prepare to meet these needs with data-informed systems that drive both quality of care and equity.
