Autism: Why are so many children being diagnosed these days?

Twenty years ago, autism in Ireland was still seen as a relatively rare condition. Studies at the time suggested around seven in 10,000 schoolchildren were being diagnosed as autistic.

Today, research suggests as many as one in 20 schoolchildren may have autism or a similar developmental issue.

So, why are so many more children being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders compared with two decades ago?

Is the State equipped to meet the growing demand for specialised health and education services?

And what are the long-term implications for children, who don’t get the support and care that they need?

Presented by Sorcha Pollak, produced by Suzanne Brennan.

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