Autism spectrum disorder

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to interact socially and relate to the world around them. The degree to which an individual is affected ranges across a wide spectrum, from severe difficulties in communicating to mild symptoms.

ASD facts

  • More than 74 million people are affected by ASD worldwide
  • Treated prevalence is increasing, probably as a reflection of increased awareness and improving access to services
  • In 2012 in Australia, 1 in 63 schoolchildren were diagnosed with ASD
  • Males are 4-5 times more likely to be diagnosed than females

ASD research at QBI

ASD-related research at QBI is covered by a number of laboratories. For more information, head to the following pages or contact the researchers directly.

  What causes ASD?

  Signs and symptoms

  ASD treatment

  Diagnosing ASD