Scale of the challenge ahead remains unknown

When it comes to autism in China, however, specialists warn that the actual number of individuals affected by the developmental disorder, which affects communication and social interaction, is still far higher than recorded figures.

Things you should know about autism

Autism is a cerebral developmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of interests and behaviors. Autism is formed before three years old.

Lending a hand to autism sufferers

A private facility is doing its bit to help as autism afflicts a growing number of children in China. Wang Zhen in Beijing and Liu Mingtai in Jilin report.