Rethinking Autism: Experts Urge Splitting the Spectrum into Subgroups

A UCL editorial argues Autism Spectrum Disorder may be too broad to guide care, noting the UK prevalence has surged to about 1 in 57 and highlighting distinct early-diagnosed vs. late-diagnosed groups with different genetic and clinical profiles. With no biological biomarker, diagnosis relies on behavior and self-report, risking misdiagnosis as the spectrum expands. The piece calls for splitting autism into precise subgroups and focusing on individuals' specific needs to improve diagnostic accuracy and targeted interventions.