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Autism Spectrum Disorder
On this page: What is autism? | How many children have autism? | Supporting children and adults with autism
What is autism?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disability that affects how people communicate, interact, and process the world around them. Every autistic person is unique, with their own mix of strengths, challenges, and ways of thinking and learning.
Key characteristics of autism
Autism is a called a “spectrum” because people can have very different signs, skills, and support needs.
- Some autistic people may need daily support throughout life.
- Others may live on their own with little or no formal services.
Common characteristics include:
- Differences in how a person communicates or interacts with others.
- Repeated actions or very strong interests.
- Sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or touch.
- Strengths such as good memory, attention to detail, or deep focus on an interest.
Causes of autism
Scientists are still working to understand what causes autism. Research suggests that a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors could influence whether a child develops autism. Possible risk factors include:
- Having a sibling with autism.
- Certain genetic or chromosomal conditions (e.g. fragile X syndrome).
- Complications at birth.
- Older parental age.
Risk factors may increase likelihood but are not a cause of autism – they do not determine outcomes. Many children have one or more risk factors, but most do not develop autism.
Many large, trusted studies have confirmed no link. The study that originally raised concern was proven false and pulled from the record, due to ethical and scientific flaws. Vaccines are safe and help protect against serious diseases. Talk to a doctor or provider you trust if you have concerns.
Acetaminophen is considered safe and important for treating pain or fever during pregnancy.
- Untreated fever can be a concern in pregnancy. A high fever is most concerning just before pregnancy and in the first trimester. During this timeframe, a fever can impact development. Conditions associated with a fever in early pregnancy include autism (there is currently limited data on this), congenital heart defects, cleft lip/palate, and miscarriage. Fevers in late pregnancy can lead to preterm labor/birth.
- Pregnant people with questions about medications should talk with their health care provider. It is important to have a care provider you can trust.
Learn more about acetaminophen use during pregnancy (PDF).
How many children have autism?
Minnesota is one of 16 sites in the United States that measures the number of children with autism through the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. This work is done by the University of Minnesota in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Health. According to 2022 Minnesota data, 1 in 28 (3.6%) 8-year-olds were identified with autism. This is an increase from 1 in 34 (3.0%) in 2020.
What this data means
This increase does not necessarily mean more children have autism. It more likely reflects:
- Better tools and methods for identifying autism.
- Greater awareness among families and professionals.
- Expanded data collection in Minnesota.
In short, we are likely seeing more children identified because we are getting better at recognizing autism.
Supporting children and adults with autism
With understanding, acceptance, and supportive environments, autistic people thrive and share their strengths with their families, communities, and the world.
Leucovorin and autism
Leucovorin (also called folinic acid—a prescription form of folate, vitamin B9) is not a proven treatment for autism. Research so far has been limited to small studies—for example, one study in 2013 included only 44 children. To know if a treatment is effective, we need multiple large studies with many participants, done by different research teams.
Autism is complex and not treated with a single medication. Families should be cautious of claims suggesting leucovorin is a “cure” and talk with their doctor before considering any treatment.
Resources and information
Minnesota Autism Resource Portal
The Minnesota Autism Resource Portal is a statewide website that brings together up-to-date information and resources for autistic people, families, and professionals. It also offers an online navigation tool in English, Hmong, Somali, and Spanish.
- Pathway to services and supports: includes guides to help people understand diagnosis, find services, and access support across all stages of life.
- Screening and identification: explains why screening and diagnosis matter, who can provide them, and what families can do while waiting.
- Financial assistance and other resources: lists programs for health care, child care, housing, transportation, food, and income support.
- On the Autism Spectrum: Families Find Help and Hope: is a series of short films highlighting autism awareness and services in African American, Hmong, Latino, Native American, and Somali communities. Includes additional videos and podcasts on autism, early signs, and family experiences.
Other Minnesota resources
- Disability Hub MN: Free statewide resource network that helps people with disabilities solve problems, navigate systems, and plan for the future.
- Help Me Connect: Links families with young children (birth–8) to local services that support child development and family well-being.
- Help Me Grow MN: Provides developmental screenings and evaluations through local school districts if there are concerns about a child’s growth or learning.
- Minnesota Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network: Measures the number of children with autism in Minnesota to better understand needs.