Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affect ~1% of the population
and are characterized by impairments in social
interaction and communication, as well as by repetitive
and restricted behaviors. ASDs include mild to severe levels
of impairment—cognitive function ranges from above
average to intellectual disability (ID)—and are often
accompanied by seizures and other medical problems.
There is a ~4:1 male-to-female gender ratio in ASD.