Alpha Xi Delta proudly supports Autism Speaks™. The world's largest autism advocacy organization, Autism Speaks™ is dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, to funding research into the causes, prevention and treatments for autism, and to advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
What is autism?
Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in one in 110 children in the United States, affecting four times as many boys as girls. The prevalence of autism has increased tenfold in the last decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown. Click here to learn more about Autism Speaks™.
Did you know?
•Autism is a devastating neurological disorder that impairs - often severely - an individual's ability to communicate, form relationships with others, and relate to their surroundings.
•It is the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the nation.
•According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects 1 in 110 children, 1 in 70 boys today, compared to 1 to 10,000 just thirteen years ago.
•1.5 million people are affected in the U.S., and tens of millions worldwide.
•Despite these statistics, autism research remains severely underfunded.
•Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases.
•There is no medical detection or cure for autism
•More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined.
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If you want to know more about giving to the Alpha Xi Delta Foundation or have questions, please contact Kendra Lewis, Director of Development, at klewis@alphaxidelta.org.
© 2010 Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity
