The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is proposing a change in the definition of Autism Disorder in the 5th edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5.)

This new definition of autism could exclude several children who currently have the diagnosis of Asperger’s and PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified.) This is relevant, because insurance companies, schools, state and local agencies use the DSM diagnosis to decide on treatment plans, compensation and services.

Experts believe that this new definition will also decrease the diagnosis rate of autism. ABC news reported on a statement by Dr. Fred Volkmar of Yale University. According to analysis of data from a 1994 study, “half of the people diagnosed with autism in that trial would no longer merit a diagnosis under the new proposed criteria.”[/b][/b][/u]

If patients lose their diagnosis, they may no longer be eligible for important services and therapies. NYTimes reports that the proposed changes “would probably exclude people with a diagnosis who were higher functioning.” The changes could affect thousands of children and adults who rely on the services they receive because of their diagnosis.

Dr. Geri Dawson, the Chief Science Officer of Autism Speaks, writes in her blog that she recognizes that while proposed changes have a “scientific rationale, we at Autism Speaks are likewise concerned about their effect on access to services. It is crucial that these changes don’t result in discrimination against people who are struggling with autism symptoms.”

read this and more in the links bellow:

http://blogs.babycenter.com/mom_stories/...efinition/
http://www.dsm5.org/Documents/12-03%20Au...20DSM5.pdf

IN MY OPINION: THAT'S ANOTHER POLITICAL MANEUVER TO LOWER THE COSTS OF HEALTH CARE TREATMENT FROM THE GOVERNMENT. THE HIGH FUNCTIONING AUTISM KID WILL BE FORSAKEN TO HIS OWN SORT. APA SHOULD WORK FOR BETTER TREATMENT, CURE AND PREVENTION OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER, NOT TO CUT COSTS FOR THE GOVERNMENT.