CDC Data Shows Increased Autism Identification, Especially Among Girls and Historically Underdiagnosed Groups

The proportion of U.S. children identified with autism continues to grow, per new CDC data—a trend experts link to long-overdue improvements in recognizing diverse autism presentations, particularly among girls and children of color, rather than an actual increase in autism.

Key findings from the 2022 data The CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, tracking 16 U.S. sites, found autism identification in eight-year-olds rose to 3.2% (1 in 31) in 2022 from 2.8% (1 in 36) in 2020. The latest report shows:

sites, found autism identification in eight-year-olds rose to 3.2% (1 in 31) in 2022 from 2.8% (1 in 36) in 2020.

• Reduced diagnostic disparities: Identification rates increased among Black (2.9% to 3.3%), Hispanic (2.4% to 2.8%), and Asian/Pacific Islander children (3.3% to 3.7%), converging with white peers (3.1% to 3.4%). Researchers attribute this to improved screening access and reduced cultural biases in diagnosis (Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2025).
• Progress in recognizing autism in girls: While boys were still more frequently identified (4.1% vs. 2.2%), girls saw a 22% increase (from 1.8% in 2020) as clinicians better understood non-stereotypical presentations (CDC, 2022).
• Geographic variations: Rates ranged from 1 in 19 (San Diego) to 1 in 103 (parts of Texas), reflecting differences in state Medicaid policies, school screening programs, and specialist availability (WBUR, 2025).

Why identification rates are changing The rise stems from broader screening tools (e.g., including sensory sensitivities), updated diagnostic criteria (DSM-5-TR), and training to recognize autism beyond male stereotypes. The CDC notes the ADDM Network’s regional focus means data isn’t nationally representative (CDC, 2022).

Addressing misinformation Claims linking autism to vaccines or acetaminophen lack evidence, per NIH research. The CDC’s methodology follows epidemiological standards, though some researchers debate whether environmental factors play a minor role (FactCheck.org, 2025).