Autism Spectrum Disorder: Many Children Of Color Experience Delayed And Incorrect Autism Diagnosis

Black and Hispanic children are just as likely to develop Autism Spectrum Disorder as white children. But according to statistics, white children are more likely to be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder compared to black and Hispanic children in the U.S.

"According to the most recent data from the CDC, white children are 30 percent more likely to be identified with ASD than black children and 50 percent more likely than Hispanic children," The Huffington Post reports. "But black or Hispanic children were not less likely to have ASD, so a disparity is clear."

One example is Camille Proctor's son Ari, who went to several experts for over a period of many years before finally getting a correct autism diagnosis. "There's a lack of diversity in stories with children with disabilities," Proctor told The Huffington Post.

Meet Brett. He's proving how those with autism can flourish in the workplace. #EmployableMe #WorldAutismAwarenessDayhttps://t.co/Ytxs39Jrtd

— BBC Two (@BBCTwo) April 2, 2016

Experts agree that the earlier the autism diagnosis is made, the better. The target age for giving an autism diagnosis to children is two-years-old. Ari was given the correct autism diagnosis at age 10 already.

Because of these racial issues involving autism diagnosis, Proctor decided to create The Color of Autism. It is a non-profit organization that focuses on giving support to families of color that deal with autism as well as spreading awareness to communities about Autism Spectrum Disorder in children of color.

There are several early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder in children. Delayed speech, frequent repetition of words or phrases, flat and monotonous speaking sound, using single words instead of sentences, not responding to name call, rejecting cuddles from parents, reacting negatively to orders, socialization difficulties, repetitive hand and finger movements, getting upset with routine changes and sniffing objects or people are some of the most common early autism symptoms, NHS shares.