A conference next week will focus on a condition not easily understood: autism.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause social, communication and behavioral challenges.

ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups, but is almost five times more common among boys than among girls.

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that about 1 in 68 children will have autism spectrum disorder.

It’s a condition that seems to have become more common recently. There’s some truth in that.

More people than ever are being diagnosed with ASD. According to the CDC, it is unclear exactly how much of this increase is due to a broader definition of ASD and better efforts in diagnosis.

While science and medicine have learned much about ASD over the past couple of decades, there are still many questions parents have — especially after a recent diagnosis of autism.

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Service, in conjunction with Three Rivers El Council and Auburn University Montgomery Continuing Education, will sponsor a autism conference Nov. 12 at the Dallas County Health Department.

Those who attend will gain a working knowledge of working with children with autism as well as resources available to help families.

Speakers will include Dr. David Finn, professor at Samford University, and Suzanne Perrigin Dowling, cofounder of Arts ‘N Autism in Tuscaloosa and mother of a son with autism.

Unfortunately, autism sometimes carries a stigma of shame or guilt. It definitely should not.

The conference will offer that reassurance and how to make sure children with autism have every opportunity to succeed. The workshop is free for families. There is a small registration fee for professionals like social workers, therapists, teachers and nurses.

Anyone interested in attending should call 1 (800) 723-0490 for more information. Space is limited. The conference will be Nov. 12 from 9:30 a.m. through 2:30 p.m., including a lunch break, at the Dallas County Health Department.