Possible CausesCutting Edge ResearchHope for the Future

Autism is a major public health crisis. More children will be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder this year than with childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. It is a devastating neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child’s communication and social skills, ability to empathize and often IQ. There is no clear cause and no cure. Nationally, one in 110 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, but in New Jersey, the prevalence rate is one in 94! These alarming statistics have led to an enormous amount of scientific research in an effort to decode the mystery of autism. Scientists are studying the brains, blood and genes of children with autism and looking at the environment to find answers about what causes it.

Decoding Autism, with Emmy Award-winning journalist Sara Lee Kessler, is an hour-long documentary that highlights the efforts underway both in New Jersey and in cities like New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Louisville and Sacramento, California. Scientists hope to gain insights that will lead to prevention, treatment and even a cure. Decoding Autism also gives viewers a first-hand look at the challenges families face to find help for their children. It is a race against time because it’s well documented that early intervention provides the best hope of lessening the severity of autism spectrum disorders.

Major funding for “Decoding Autism” is provided by The Mel Karmazin Foundation.
Additional funding is provided by The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities, The Karma Foundation and by the Marotta Family Foundation.