Autism Rates Soaring For Somalis In U.S.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (CBS) ― Their colorful shops line the streets, catering to their own culture and drawing in ours. Beginning in 1993, Somali people began arriving in Minnesota from refugee camps in Kenya. By that time, Somalia's political chaos had led to the killing or starvation of many of its people. For refugees, Minneapolis offered a place to start a new life, a new business, or a new family. "Many things attracted Somalis to Minnesota to stay. Good health cover and good education," said Huda Farah. Farah works on refugee resettlement with the Minnesota Department of Health. It's through her work that she's noticed something troubling within her community. "We're seeing (an) increased number in autism," she said. Reporter Amelia Santaniello asked her, "Is there autism in Somalia?" "Not many, not many," replied Farah.... [read full story]