More than 1,000 individuals, families and friends touched by the effects of autism will join to raise funds for scientific research and to increase awareness of this growing health issue at the Carolinas Walk for Autism Research on Saturday, Oct. 7, at Lowe's Motor Speedway, Concord.

Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. One in 166 children is now diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, including one in 104 boys. Another child is diagnosed every 20 minutes.

The National Alliance for Autism Research and Autism Speaks recently merged to form Autism Speaks. All proceeds from the walk will benefit Autism Speaks, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing awareness of autism and raising money for autism research.

Last year's Carolinas walk drew 800 walkers and raised over $150,000.

Registration for the Oct. 7 Carolinas walk begins at 8:30 a.m. The walk begins at 10 a.m.

For more information about the walk and how to join the effort by walking, contributing or volunteering, contact Autism Speaks at 704-553-0250 or at carolinas@ autismspeaks.org.