### Average Annual Spending by Parents on Autism-Related Therapy and
Services
Parents of children with autism in the United States face significant financial burdens
due to the costs associated with autism-related therapies and services. On average,
families with children on the autism spectrum incur an additional $17,000 to $27,000 per
year in medical expenses compared to families without autism[1]. This includes costs for
therapies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which can range from $46,000 to
$47,500 annually, or about $120 per hour. Other therapies, including speech,
occupational, and physical therapy, cost approximately $75 for a half-hour session[2].
### Average Annual Spending by Schools or the State on Supporting
Students with Autism
Public schools in the United States are legally required to provide special education to
students with autism under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The
cost of special education services varies widely, but private schools for children with
autism can range from $15,000 to $100,000 or more annually, depending on the type of
care needed[2]. The total annual direct costs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in
children are estimated at $11.5 billion, with significant portions of these costs borne by
educational systems[4].
### National Data on the Economic Impact of Autism on Families and
Educational Systems
The economic impact of autism on families and educational systems in the United States
is substantial. The total annual cost of autism services in the U.S. is estimated
to be between $236 billion and $262 billion, with costs increasing with age[1].
The lifetime cost of caring for an individual with autism ranges from $1.4 million to $2.4
million[1].
A study by UC Davis projected that the total costs of caring for all people with ASD in the
U.S. could reach $500 billion by 2025, potentially rising to $1 trillion if effective
interventions are not implemented[3]. This includes medical, nonmedical, and
productivity losses. The majority of autism costs are for adult services, estimated at $175
to $196 billion per year[4].
In summary, the financial burden of autism care in the United States is immense,
affecting both families and educational systems. The data underscores the need for
comprehensive support and intervention programs to mitigate these costs and improve
outcomes for individuals with autism.
Citations:
[1] https://www.totalcareaba.com/autism/how-much-is-autism-benefits
[2] https://hopeforthree.org/autism-is-expensive/
https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/autisms-costs-estimated-be-500-billion-
potentially-1-trillion-2025
[4] https://elemy.wpengine.com/autism/the-average-annual-costs-of-autism-nationwide
[7' https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1750946719301904
Based on the available search results and government statistics, I can provide you with
some key data points to help understand the total addressable market for autism
spectrum disorder (ASD) in the United States:
### Autistic Children and Adults
- Approximately 1 in 36 children (or 2.8%) in the U.S. are identified with autism
spectrum disorder, according to the most recent CDC data[1][2].
- Using the current U.S. population estimates, this translates to roughly 2.3
million children under 18 with ASD.
- While exact numbers for autistic adults are not as well established,
applying similar prevalence rates to the adult population would suggest several
million adults with ASD in the U.S.
### Parents and Caregivers
- Assuming at least two primary caregivers per child with ASD, there are likely
over 4.6 million parents/primary caregivers of autistic children.
- This number increases significantly when considering caregivers for autistic
adults and extended family members involved in care.
### Therapists and ABA Providers
- The exact number of ASD-focused therapists is not provided in the search
results, but the demand for such professionals is high given the prevalence rates.
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a primary therapy for ASD. While
specific numbers of ABA providers are not given, the field has seen significant
growth to meet demand.
### Economic Impact and Market Size
- The total annual cost of autism services in the U.S. is estimated to be
between $236 billion and $262 billion[2].
- The lifetime cost of caring for an individual with autism ranges from $1.4 million
to $2.4 million[2].
- A study projected that the total costs of caring for all people with ASD in the
U.S. could reach $500 billion by 2025, potentially rising to $1 trillion if effective
interventions are not implemented[2].
While these figures provide a general overview of the ASD market in the United States,
it's important to note that precise numbers for all categories (especially for adults with
ASD and specific numbers of therapists) are not readily available in the provided search
©LTIMindtree I Privileged and Confidential 2023 2
results. The data suggests a substantial and growing market for ASD-related services and
support, with significant economic implications.
Citations:
[1] https://www.goldenstepsaba.com/resources/how-common-is-autism
[2] https://www.supportivecareaba.com/aba-therapy/autism-frequency
[3] https://www.spectrumnews.org/news/u-s-autism-prevalence-inches-upward-as-
racialgaps-close/
https://www.spectrumnews.org/news/new-u-s-data-show-similar-autism-prevalence-
among-racial-groups/
[5] https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2023/p0323-autism.html
How many autistic adults are undiagnosed in the U.S
Based on the most recent government data, there are an estimated 5,437,988 adults
(aged 18 and older) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the United States. This
represents approximately 2.21 % of the adult population[1][2][3].
Key points about the prevalence of autism in adults in the U.S.:
- This estimate translates to about 1 in 45 adults having ASD[3].
- The prevalence varies by state, ranging from 1.97% in Louisiana to 2.42%
in Massachusetts[2].
- There is a significant gender difference in prevalence:
- Approximately 3.62% of adult males (4,357,667) are estimated to have
ASD[1].
- About 0.86% of adult females (1,080,322) are estimated to have ASD[1].
- States with the highest estimated number of adults with ASD include:
- California: 701,669
- Texas: 449,631
- New York: 342,280
- Florida: 329,131[1][2]
It's important to note that this is the first comprehensive study by the CDC to estimate
the prevalence of ASD in adults in the United States. The data fills a critical gap in
understanding the adult ASD population, as previous surveillance efforts primarily
focused on children[1][3].
This information is crucial for policymakers, healthcare providers, and support services to
understand the scale of ASD in the adult population and to plan appropriate resources
and interventions for this group.
Citations:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/autism/publications/adults-living-with-autism-spectrum-
disorder.html
©LTIMindtree I Privileged and Confidential 2023
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9128411/
[?] https://edition.cnn.com/2020/05/11/health/autism-adults-cdc-health/index.htm I
[4] https://iacc.hhs.gov/publ ications/sum mary-of-advances/2020/question7.shtm I
[5] https://health.umms.org/2022/03/25/adults-and-autism/
What are the main reasons many autistic adults remain undiagnosed
Based on the search results and current understanding of autism, there are
several key reasons why many autistic adults remain undiagnosed:
1. Masking or camouflaging symptoms: Many autistic adults,
especially those assigned female at birth, learn to mask their autistic
traits to fit in socially. This can make it harder for others, including
healthcare professionals, to recognize their autism[1 ][3].
2. Changes in diagnostic criteria: The diagnostic criteria for autism
have expanded over the years, meaning some adults may have been
missed under older, narrower definitions[2].
3. Gender bias in diagnosis: Historically, autism was thought to be
more prevalent in males. This has led to underdiagnosis in females, with
recent research showing that nearly 80% of autistic females are
undiagnosed by age 18[3].
4. Varied presentation of symptoms: Autism is a spectrum disorder,
and its presentation can vary greatly from person to person. This
diversity can make it challenging to recognize, especially in adults who
may have developed coping strategies[1 ][2].
5. Lack of awareness: Many healthcare providers may be less familiar
with how autism presents in adults, leading to missed diagnoses or
misdiagnoses[2].
6. Cultural and socioeconomic factors: Children from under-
resourced backgrounds or certain cultural groups may be less likely to
receive early diagnosis and support[2].
7. Misdiagnosis with other conditions: Undiagnosed autistic
adults may be misdiagnosed with other psychiatric disorders, leading to
inappropriate treatment approaches[2].
8. Lack of access to diagnostic services: It can be difficult to find
professionals who can assess adults for autism, and the process can be
costly and not always covered by insurance[2].
9. Internalized masking: Some adults may have internalized societal
expectations to such a degree that they struggle to recognize their own
autistic traits[1][2].
10. Subtle presentation in adulthood: As adults learn to cope with
challenges, their autistic traits may become less obvious, making
diagnosis more difficult[1][3].
©LTIMindtree I Privileged and Confidential 2023 4
Understanding these factors is crucial for improving diagnosis rates and
ensuring that autistic adults receive appropriate support and understanding
throughout their lives.
Citations:
[1] https://myautismmind.com/symptoms-of-autism-in-adults/
[2] https://www.columbiadoctors.org/news/adults-autism-difficulties-and-
strengths
https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/understanding-undiagnosed-autism-
adult-females
[4] https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/undiagnosed-autism-in-
adults/
[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326841
Are there specific therapies designed for adults with autism
Yes, there are several therapies and treatment approaches specifically
designed or adapted for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Based
on the search results and current best practices, here are some of the main
therapies used for autistic adults:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is considered one of the
most effective treatments for adults with autism. CBT helps
individuals manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health
conditions commonly associated with autism. It teaches coping
mechanisms, problem-solving skills, and strategies to navigate social
situations.
2. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): While often associated with
children, ABA therapy can be adapted for adults. It focuses on positive
reinforcement to develop adaptive behaviors, reduce challenging
behaviors, and improve overall functioning.
3. Social Skills Training: These programs are crucial for helping autistic
adults navigate social interactions effectively. They provide structured
learning opportunities to develop social communication, emotional
regulation, and relationship-building skills.
4. Occupational Therapy: This therapy helps adults with autism
develop practical skills necessary for daily living and work. It aims to
improve fine motor skills, sensory integration, and self-care abilities,
enhancing independence and promoting vocational opportunities.
5. Speech and Language Therapy: For adults with autism who
experience challenges in communication, this therapy focuses on
improving verbal and nonverbal communication, speech articulation,
pragmatic language skills, and understanding social cues.
6. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This approach
incorporates mindfulness, values, and acceptance to help individuals
identify what's most important to them and make positive behavioral
changes.
©LTIMindtree I Privileged and Confidential 2023 5
