A Presidential Proclamation
Early this month, President Obama announced April 1 as World Autism Awareness Day. World Autism Awareness Day is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of individuals with ASDs and rededicate ourselves to the cause of understanding and responding to autism.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affect nearly 1% of children in the United States. This disorder is an urgent public health issue with a profound impact on millions of Americans. Autism is a broad group of developmental disorders characterized by impaired social interactions, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors, or severely limited activities and interests.

"My Administration maintains a firm commitment to advance autism research and treatment, as well as promote education, employment, and equality for all individuals with autism, from early childhood through employment and community life. We will continue to work with the Congress, experts, and families to improve Federal and State programs that assist individuals with ASDs and their families and to bolster the impact and reach of community support and services," the President said.

www.HHS.gov/autism

Send your questions and comments to Jenny Carlton, NCHPAD News Editor, at jcarlto1@uic.edu.