NBC Today Show - Autism: The Hidden Epidemic?

According to a recent report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the number of children diagnosed with autism has skyrocketed more than 500 percent in the past ten years. (Special Education: Children with Autism published by the Government Accountability Office)

As families struggle with this devastating disorder, news organizations are taking a fresh look at issues related to autism, including theories behind its dramatic increase and effective treatments.

Autism - The Hidden Epidemic? (February 21-25)

NBC’s “Today” show will run a special 10-part series on autism next week, from Monday, February 21 through Friday, February 25. Autism: The Hidden Epidemic will include these segments:

Feb. 21: Early Signs and Causes
Feb. 22: Diagnosis: The Marino Family Story
Feb. 23: Education and Emotional Aspects
Feb. 24: Advocating and the Law
Feb. 25: 'Autism Speaks' Initiative

The February 24 segment, "How to be the Best Advocate For Your Child," will include an interview with Gary Mayerson, the attorney who successfully represented the family in Zachary Deal v. Hamilton County (6th Cir. 2004). Mr Mayerson is the author of How To Compromise With Your School District Without Compromising Your Child.

Autism: Paying the Price (February 22-25)

CNBC will air a four-part series, Autism: Paying the Price from Tuesday, February 22 though Friday, February 25, Segments will air at 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM.

Autism: Paying the Price will focus on the financial implications of the disorder. The show will feature segments on:

* financial impact on families
* roles of government and private funding for research
* opportunities in healthcare and pharmaceuticals
* autism in the workplace

Both shows will feature interviews with researchers, physicians, activists, educators and parents.

Learn more about these programs.

Learn more about autism at Wrightslaw.

Organizations & Resources

Autism Society of America (ASA)

Autism Coalition

Autism Research Institute

Center for the Study of Autism

Cure Autism Now Foundation

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT)

National Alliance for Autism Research

Unlocking Autism

More news.

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