Author Argues Rising Prevalence among Younger Generations Refutes Claims of Widespread Undiagnosed Cases
A new op-ed in Psychology Today takes a closer look at the recent JAMA study on autism rates from 2011-2022, challenging popular interpretations of its findings on diagnostic trends among adults and children. While media headlines suggest a surge in adult autism diagnoses reflects previously undiagnosed individuals, this op-ed argues the data tell a different story. By analyzing diagnostic codes and birth year trends, the author finds that the increase in autism prevalence is tied to younger generations, with those born after the 1980s showing significantly higher rates. This exponential rise in prevalence contradicts the assumption of widespread undiagnosed cases in older adults. Instead, the data suggest the health system has consistently diagnosed adults over time, but generational shifts drive the overall increase. This op-ed calls for a shift in public policy and research priorities, highlighting the need to prepare for a future where more autistic individuals require lifelong support as they age.
