SUBJECT EPIDEMIOLOGY Calculate category statistics Autism is

SUBJECT: EPIDEMIOLOGY

Calculate category statistics: Autism is a disability that is characterized by a severely decreased ability to engage in communication and social interaction. A study was undertaken to establish the prevalence of Autism in a community. Data from this study are reported below:

Children Diagnosed With Autism per Age Group

Age Group

Children With Autism

3–5

193,479

6–10

175,417

a) Calculate the prevalence rate of autism for the two age categories.

b) Calculate the prevalence to a rate per 1,000.

Solution

Total children = 193479 + 175417 = 368896

Prevalence rate = number of people affected at a specified time / total population at that time.

a) For age group 3-5: Prevalence rate = 193479/368896 = 0.525

For age group 6-10: Prevalence rate = 175417/368896 = 0.475

b) prevalence to a rate per 1,000 = Prevalence rate x 1000

prevalence to a rate per 1,000 for age group 3-5 = 0.525 x 1000 = 525

prevalence to a rate per 1,000 for age group 6-10 = 0.475 x 1000 = 475