The rate of autism and related disorders continues to climb sharply in the United States, with CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)'s 2010 surveillance figures figures showing that 1 in 68 children has been identified with the serious communication and behavior deficits that lead to a diagnosis.

The March 2014 published figures are  30 percent higher than the 2012 estimate and more than double the rate in a 2007 report.

The latest numbers, published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, are based on records from clinicians, schools, organizations and other community sources involved in diagnosing, treating or serving children and youth with developmental disabilities.

The data come from nearly 11 diverse communities across the country and provide the nation’s best estimate “of identified prevalence” up to age 20, officials say. The new rate equates to about 1.2 million young Americans.

Increased awareness and detection explain part of the dramatic jump, but experts such as Bryan King, director of the Seattle Children’s Autism Center, believe that the disorder is rising among children. “I’m not willing to chalk up a 200 percent increase in numbers to greater awareness,” he said.

And the new 1-in-68 number may actually understate the situation. Two years ago, a South Korean study identified the disorder in 1 in every 38 children, which King and others expect is closer to the true prevalence.

No matter what the rate, “we’re still dealing with an enormous problem,” King said. “It’s like asking is it a three-alarm fire or five-alarm fire. … It’s a huge fire.” (Politico)

Behind these numbers are real children, teens and young adults living with autism.  Learn more about how you can help @ www.washingtonautismadvocacy.org