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Understanding Autism

Join a growing community of families, autistic adults, and researchers working to understand autism and improve lives.

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WHY JOIN SPARK

  • You’ll be part of the largest autism research community
  • It’s simple and free
  • SPARK is a long-term study that will provide answers to research questions for years to come
  • Together we can advance the understanding of autism
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Who Can Join

  • SPARK is for all individuals living in the U.S. with a professional diagnosis of autism and their family members
  • All ages are welcome

How to Join

  • Create an account online
  • Agree to share data and genetic information
  • Registration takes about 20 minutes

What Participation Means

  • Participation is online and free
  • Your information will be kept private and secure
  • Answer questions about your autism experience
  • Return your saliva kit if you agree to genetic research
  • Learn about additional research opportunities
New to SPARK? Learn more.
Already a participant? Visit your personal SPARK Dashboard.

MEET OUR PARTICIPANTS

The Struggle to Identify Autism in Girls: Sarah’s Story
The Struggle to Identify Autism in Girls: Sarah’s Story

Sarah had many classic signs of autism, but no one suspected it in the quiet girl who never made a fuss. Why did she have to wait until adulthood to get a diagnosis?

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The Challenge of Physical Fitness for Autistic People
The Challenge of Physical Fitness for Autistic People

Children and adults with autism are at a greater risk for an inactive lifestyle and obesity than others. What unique challenges to physical fitness do they face?

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Bobby Durbin Finds Community, Challenges Expectations
Bobby Durbin Finds Community, Challenges Expectations

Bobby's family included him in everything since childhood, helping others to understand his autism. Now 35, he's a big part of his community.

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WEBINARS

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Aníbal Gutiérrez

Aníbal Gutiérrez

Programas de Intervención del Comportamiento temprana para TEA

March 1, 2024

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Wendy Chung, M.D., Ph.D.

Wendy Chung, M.D., Ph.D.

Webinar: SPARK-Past, Present, and Future

April 9, 2024

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CONTACT US