Catching autism early in Georgia
A partnership between the Marcus Autism Center, one of the nation's premier autism research centers, and the state of Georgia is working to boost early detection and diagnosis of the disorder.
Research shows that 1 in 88 children in the U.S. have autism spectrum disorder, a range of developmental disabilities that affect their ability to communicate, understand language and relate to others.
Brandon is autistic, and has come a long way in his seven weeks in the pediatric feeding disorder program at the Marcus Autism Center. He used to eat only crackers and McDonald's fries, but meal time is no longer a constant battle.
Marcus Autism Center, which operates under the umbrella of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, is one of three institutions designated as an Autism Center of Excellence by the National Institutes of Health.
She pulls Brandon in closer as he buries his face in her chest before a session in the pediatric feeding disorder program at the Marcus Autism Center, Sept. 18, 2013.