April is World Autism Awareness Month, and April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day.

The United Nations created the worldwide observance in 2007, and this year is the 11th observance of the proclamation for both specific day and the month of other related observances.

As of 2016, autism affects about one in 68 children, and the numbers continue to grow. it is estimated that one out in 42 boys will end up being diagnosed with autism, and boys are five times more likely to have autism than girls. It is one of the fastest growing developmental disorders in the United States; it is estimated that a family with a member diagnosed with autism will spend about $60,000 a year on treatment.