Blame it on the X factor. Research has long shown that boys are over three times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls. In fact, about 1 in 20 US boys are diagnosed with autism by age 8. For girls, the rate ranges from about 1 in 70 to 1 in 100 . The complex neurodevelopmental condition , which typically affects social communication, interaction and behavior, is becoming more prevalent overall. Scientists have pointed the finger at genetic and biological differences, as well as