Autism and ASD (autism spectrum disorder) are catch-all terms for a large group of brain development disorders which are characterized by difficulty in communication and social interaction, and by repetitive behavior. Disorders on the autism spectrum include autism, childhood disintegrative disorder, Asperger syndrome and Rett syndrome. ASD is commonly associated with motor issues and short attention span, and with physical ailments such as insomnia and GI disturbance.
Scientists believe that autism has its origins in the earliest developmental stages of the brain, but most signs of ASD appear between 2-3 years of age. Researchers are looking for better early-diagnosis methods, and it’s been proven that autism care and behavioral therapy can result in a better outcome. Below, you will learn more about autism spectrum disorder and its causes.
Autism: How Common is it?
According to the CDC’s statistics, about one in every 88 children are diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum—a tenfold increase in the last four decades. Research shows that the increase is only partially explained by higher awareness and better diagnostic tools. Autism and related disorders are five times more prevalent among boys than girls; one in 54 boys and about one in 250 girls have ASD in the US.
More children get an autism diagnosis each year than with AIDS, cancer, and juvenile-onset diabetes combined. ASD affects over two million Americans, and countless millions around the world. Government statistics suggest a 10-17% increase in autism cases in the last few years; there’s no one explanation for the increase, but heightened awareness and environmental causes may be a factor.
Autism—What Causes It?
Just a few short years ago, this question would have elicited a response of “We don’t know”. Researchers are now finding answers; there’s no single defining cause of ASD, and there’s more than one type of the disorder. Over the last few years, science has pinpointed some genetic mutations that may be linked to ASD, but most cases are thought to be caused by a combination of genetics and environment.
Where there’s a genetic link to autism, environmental factors can increase a child’s risk of ASD. The best evidence of such a link involves both pre- and postnatal events such as advanced age with one or both parents, illness during pregnancy, and certain birth complications like oxygen deprivation. Parents and caregivers should bear in mind that the above factors are not the sole cause of autism, but they do present a slight increase in risk.
Lowering the Risk of ASD
Mounting research suggests that women can reduce the risk of having a baby with ASD by taking a good prenatal vitamin or eating a folic acid-rich diet in the time just before and after conception. There also may be a link between the mother’s immune system and autism, and a balanced diet, plenty of sleep and adequate exercise all have immune-boosting properties.
“On the Spectrum”: What Does it Mean?
Every person with ASD is different, and many have enhanced academic, music and art abilities. Almost 40% of people with autism have an above-average intellect, and those abilities, along with a “different” world view, are a source of pride for many with ASD. Others, however, have significant impairments and cannot live independently; about 25% are nonverbal but can communicate in other ways.
This guest post has been written for us by Voyage, who specialize in autism care and support for people with learning disabilities.
Image Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/57570482@N06/5299266366
