National Autism Awareness Month Published April 26, 2013 By Senior Airman Christopher Reel 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- April is recognized as the National Autism Awareness month, which provides the opportunity for the public to learn about autism and highlight the need for awareness about autism. Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others, according to the Autism Society. In 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their automatic database diagnostic monitor autism prevalence report, which showed that autism raised the United States to one in every 88 births and almost one in 54 boys. According to the Autism Society, early identification is important for the child's development. Children do not outgrow autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes. "If an individual has a family member with autism or if their family member has any other special need, they can contact the Exceptional Family Member Program," said Michelle Lasater, 325th Medical Group Family Advocacy Program Outreach manager. "Parents concerned that their child may have autism should contact their pediatrician and have their child evaluated." To contact Tyndall's Exceptional Family Member Program call (850) 283-7217. For more information about autism and National Autism Awareness Month visit, www.autism-society.org.