In recent years, autism rates have appeared to rise sharply — prompting headlines, concern, and debate. But is this truly an epidemic? According to a powerful new analysis from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the answer is more complex — and much more hopeful.

The article, Is There an Autism Epidemic?, breaks down the data behind the rising prevalence of autism diagnoses and challenges the myth that autism is a modern health crisis. Instead of an actual increase in incidence, experts point to changes in diagnostic criteria, increased awareness, broader definitions of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and better access to services as key drivers of the trend.

In the past, many autistic individuals — especially girls, people of color, and those with less obvious traits — were missed or misdiagnosed. Today, we’re simply doing a better job identifying the diverse ways autism can present. That’s progress, not panic.

The article also highlights how labeling autism as an “epidemic” can be damaging. It stigmatizes neurodivergent people and suggests that their existence is a problem to solve — rather than a difference to understand and embrace.

What we need is not fear-based language, but continued support for inclusive education, accessible services, early interventions, and a cultural shift toward acceptance.

Autism isn’t spreading — understanding is. And that’s exactly what the world needs.