Is Mild Autism Being Overdiagnosed?
Researchers are increasingly concerned that mild autism is being overdiagnosed, potentially mislabeling individuals who may have other mental health conditions or typical social struggles. Data shows a significant rise in autism diagnoses over the last two decades, particularly among those without intellectual disabilities.
Why it matters
Accurate diagnosis is essential for ensuring that individuals receive appropriate support and that resources are directed toward those with the most significant needs.
The number of people with the condition has increased rapidly in recent decades. Some researchers and clinicians worry that many patients have been wrongly diagnosed.
James Zucco July 20, 2026, 8 AM ET Share Save Not long ago, autism was considered rare, but now it’s fairly common: Autism diagnoses in children have increased nearly fivefold across the United States in the past couple of decades, from one in every 150 8-year-olds in 2000 to one in every 31 in 2022. Adult diagnoses have also gone up rapidly in recent years.
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