According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 31 children in the United States, making it one of the most common developmental disabilities. ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts social communication, behavior, and sensory processing, and it is considered a “spectrum” because symptoms and support needs vary widely from person to person. Signs often appear by age two or three and may include delayed speech, limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors, strong adherence to routines, and sensory sensitivities. Research indicates that autism is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, and extensive scientific studies have confirmed that vaccines do not cause autism. Although ASD is a lifelong condition, early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes, and many autistic individuals lead independent, successful lives with appropriate support.