ONE IN 100 AFFECTED

Autism spectrum disorder is a condition that affects social interaction, communication, interests and behaviour.

Although symptoms may be present before the age of three, diagnosis can sometimes be made after that age.

Around one in every 100 people in the UK has ASD with more boys being diagnosed with the condition than girls.

In early childhood some children with ASD do not babble or use other vocal sounds while some older children have problems using non-verbal behaviours to interact with others.

They can also find it hard to understand other people’s emotions and feelings and have difficulty striking up or taking part in conversations.

Some children with ASD prefer to stick to the same routine and little changes may trigger tantrums.