According to the most recent statistics, one in every one hundred and sixty-six children are diagnosed each year--one every 21 minutes--but it has often gone undiagnosed. It has been called a national crisis, annually costing the U.S. at least $90 billion, and it has no know cause or cure. The impact on a person suffering from it depends on the severity--One may display only a few scattered symptoms, while others are disabled completely by it.

Common symptoms include
Loss or lack of speech around 18 months of age.
Little or no eye contact.
Loss or lack of gestures, such as pointing or waving.
Repetitive speech or actions.
Unusual reactions to the way things look, feel, smell, taste or sound.

(Info taken from http//www.vh1.com/partners/vh1classic_rock_autism/faqs.jhtml)

But why is it that when people are asked what "autism" is, the most common answer is, "I don't know"?

That is the purpose of this guild--To promote awareness and information about this ever-growing disability. If you have or know somebody who has autism, or if you are simply curious about it, this is the place to discuss it. So send a request and join in.