Girls Diagnosed with Autism Later Than Boys, Study Shows

Did you know that girls are often diagnosed with autism later than boys? Research shows that girls can have different, less obvious symptoms compared to boys, which can delay diagnosis.

The Organization for Autism Research reports that while 25 percent of boys with autism are diagnosed before age 6, only 8 percent of girls receive a diagnosis by that time. By 11 years old, about half of boys have been diagnosed, compared with 20 percent of girls. By age 18, UCLA Health reports that nearly 80 percent of autistic women remain undiagnosed.

To seek a diagnosis, or obtain more information, contact your primary care provider, a psychiatrist, a psychologist, or a social worker.

Read more in the Disability Scoop.