You must understand that Autism has become this 'collected term' for many conditions in the emotional spectrum, it is not one particular set of signs but dozens.
Yes, and many people have a lack of knowledge about this subject, me included. I guess there are many forms of autism. I don't know anyone with autism, (now i know one!) and when we see in TV families that have children with autism, they usually show bigger cases with a big amount/level (if i can say it like this) of autism.
I understand from your post that it is a slow process, but do you feel that it is getting better each year, even if it's in a low rate?