Our understanding of autism will soon get a boost as universities, charities and expert institutions from 14 European countries come together in a major new programme.
Autism Spectrum Disorders in Europe (ASDEU) has been funded by the European Commission to research autism diagnosis, prevalence and interventions and to improve care and support for people with autism. The 2.1 million euros given to the programme will help to increase our understanding of autism and improve responses to the condition.
In order to achieve this, the programme will focus specifically on: studying the prevalence of autism in 12 countries in the EU; analysing the economic and social costs of autism; reviewing existing arrangements and developing proposals for early detection programmes; training professionals; validating biomarkers for the disorder and improving understanding of diagnosis, comorbidity, and effective care and support for adults and senior citizens with autism. Autism-Europe is responsible for formulating policy recommendations to European decisions-makers in the field of health and social inclusion.