Washington, D.C., D.C., United States (AHN) – University of Alabama researchers say the rate of autism and related development disorders has skyrocketed in the past four years.

The researchers, along with scientists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, say the rate could soon be 1 percent among 8-year-olds. For now, the researchers said in a statement, one in 110 8-year-olds is classified as having an autism spectrum disorder, which is 57 percent higher compared to only four years ago.

The researchers characterized the disorders as delays or changes in childhood socialization, communication and behavior.

The researchers said they do not know what caused the dramatic increase in the number of children being diagnosed with autism, but it could be due with a broader definition of autism disorders and heightened awareness by parents, doctors and teachers about the condition.

The findings were published in the Dec. 18 CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.