CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- A new report finds autism rates are going up, but there's not a clear reason why.

• Number of children considered on the autism spectrum increased from one in 68 to one in 59
• Definition of what is considered on the spectrum has changed
• More resources needed for children and families

The report, released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week, found that the number of children considered on the spectrum has grown from one in 68 in 2016 to one in 59.

Part of the reason may have to do with how people are diagnosed.

Cyzner Institute parent liaison Christy Moss says since Asperger's syndrome is no longer considered separate from the spectrum diagnosis, and because of other changes, the definition has expanded.

“There's just a general higher level of awareness, higher level of connectivity between the different agencies and populations working between the families,” said Autism Society of North Carolina Director of Communications David Laxton.

While the CDC report doesn't mean more kids are necessarily autistic, the Autism Society said it does mean more resources need to be added for children and their families to succeed.

“If you are noticing that your child is not looking at you, responding to you, responding to your smiles, playing with their toys appropriately or using them as intended, these may be signs. They may also be engaging in very repetitive play or body movements that seem repetitive,” said Cyzner Institute parent Liason Christy Moss.”