The Pennsylvania Autism Census Project Final Report

Pennsylvania Autism Census Project Final Report

The Bureau of Autism Services is pleased to share with you the Pennsylvania Autism Census Project Final Report. The report can be viewed at the BAS Virtual Training Center.

Why was this study conducted:

The Pennsylvania Autism Task Force noted that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders was unknown due to a lack of a comprehensive approach to track these individuals. In response, we conducted a study to estimate the number of individuals in the Commonwealth living with autism spectrum disorders. This is the first study of its kind in Pennsylvania.

The purpose of this study was to obtain an estimate of the number of individuals living with ASD in Pennsylvania as well as to learn about demographic characteristics of that population. The intention was to reveal the scope of need for autism-specific services and programs and to inform policy development and the design of effective services.

Findings:

According to the study, in 2005 there were close to 20,000 Pennsylvanians living with autism. Given trends, we expect that number to rise to at least 25,000 by 2010.

The report also illustrates that the number of adults with autism will increase dramatically in the near future, growing by 179% to more than 3,800 in 2010 and to more than 10,000 by 2014.

Please note the report includes county-specific information which we hope will be helpful in effectively planning for the future at both the state and local levels.

In an effort to reduce printing costs and to be more environmentally-friendly, the full online report may be accessed by visiting the sites below: BAS Virtual Training Center.

What needs to happen?

Although the projected rise in adults with autism is staggering, the good news is that Pennsylvania has already developed autism-specific programs to begin meeting the growing need. Continued support of these programs and the individuals served by them is vital so that the resources will be available in order to meet this need.

We hope that the results of the census will inform decision-makers at local, regional and state levels and encourage all stakeholder groups to work together to begin discussing the impact it will have on your communities.

Thank you for your continued interest in supporting individuals with autism and their families.