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http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2002/09/20/1032054962832.html

Autism could affect one in 1000 children, research shows

By Julie Robotham, Medical Writer
September 21 2002
 

Nearly six children are being diagnosed as autistic every week in NSW, and more are seeking help for related disorders, according to the first detailed audit of the condition to be undertaken in Australia.

The survey by Sydney doctors found autism - which causes problems with social interaction and behaviour and is often accompanied by intellectual disability - could affect as many as one in 1000 Australian children. Most new diagnoses occurred between the ages of three and five.

If the figures are extrapolated across Australia, almost 900 children will be diagnosed with

autism annually, said Katrina Williams, a pediatrician at the Children's Hospital at Westmead.

Dr Williams will present her study at the first World Autism Congress in Melbourne in November.