World Autism Awareness Day seeks to raise awareness of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and to improve the lives of those who live with it. Autism refers to a lifelong brain development disorder that affects social interactions, learning, routines, and communication. ASD is a broad term that also includes autistic disorder, certain pervasive developmental disorders, and Asperger syndrome. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that 1 in 59 children in the US have ASD. Further, they estimate the prevalence of ASD to be between 1-2% for children in Asia, Europe, and North America.
World Autism Awareness Day was designated by the United Nations in 2007 to help end stigmatization and discrimination against those with autism. It is part of the UN's Agenda for Sustainable Development, which pledges to leave no one behind. World Autism Day is observed annually on April 2nd.
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