Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which impacts communication and behaviour. Though it is now widely agreed upon that autism exists on a spectrum, ASD used to be subdivided and referred to as Asperger’s Syndrome, Autistic Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), among others.

Whilst ASD is sometimes not recognized until adulthood, symptoms are typically present from a young age. There is a wide range in the type and severity of symptoms that people experience and treatment can help improve an individual’s symptoms and their day-to-day functioning.

The causes of ASD are not yet fully understood, but scientists believe that both genetics and some environmental factors can play a role.