New Jersey moves against nation's highest autism rate

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New Jersey moves against nation's highest autism rate

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By TOM HESTER Jr.

Associated Press Writer

March 15, 2007, 8:18 PM EDT

TRENTON, N.J. -- Amid concern about a recent study that found New Jersey has

America's highest autism rate, the Assembly on Thursday approved several bills

to promote research into autism and provide lifetime care for those with the

disorder.

Autism is a complex disorder usually not diagnosed in children until after age

3. It's characterized by a range of behaviors, including difficulty in

expressing needs and an inability to socialize. Its cause is unknown.

The largest U.S. study of childhood autism recently found that about 1 in 152

have the disorder, while the highest rate _ 1 in 94 children _ was found in New

Jersey.

The bills would establish a statewide autism registry restructure a research and

treatment council, train teachers in autism awareness, instruct physicians in

early detection, create a task force on adult autism, require autism awareness

training for emergency personnel, police officers and firefighters and provide

more money for research and treatment.

" These measures will provide hope to residents with autism and their loved ones

who need greater levels of supports and assistance, " said Assembly Speaker

ph Jr., D-Camden, who unveiled the bills after the Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention report.

The Senate hasn't yet considered the proposals.

Legislators also approved a resolution asking the state to study any link

between autism and ultrasound examinations given to pregnant mothers and develop

protocols for ultrasound use.

" Autism has reached epidemic levels, " said Assemblyman ph Pennacchio,

R-, who sponsored that resolution. " There is no doubt in my mind that

environmental factors have had an effect on that increase. "

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This article originally appeared at:

http://www.newsday.com/news/local/wire/newjersey/ny-bc-nj--autismprevalence0315m\

ar15,0,838352.story?coll=ny-region-apnewjersey

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