What Really Causes Autism?

Autism is a disorder that generally is noticed in children around the age of three. For some unknown reason, autism is four times more frequent in boys than in girls. The disorder manifests itself in varying degrees in each child, but generally, the child has few interactive skills with other children, doesn't talk, doesn't make eye contact, may throw tantrums, and may act deaf when he or she has normal hearing. These are just a few of the symptoms.

It is generally accepted that autism is brought about by abnormalities in the structure of the brain or some kind of malfunctioning of the brain. It is considered a neurological disorder. As of yet, we do not know what causes this malfunctioning. There are several theories. One is environmental factors such as toxins in the air, viruses or exposure to chemicals such as mercury. Another is that autism is hereditary, as it does seem to run in families. However; they have not been able to isolate a gene that causes it. In addition, there is evidence that the potential to develop autism also runs in families.

A less popular theory is that the mother may have had problems during pregnancy or delivery, which included digesting a harmful substance. Other theories have included mothers having babies later on in life; having premature babies, and having babies born in the breech position. Studies on these factors have not come up with anything decisive and have left the medical disciplines unconvinced. There have even been theories that the measles vaccination may have caused some children to have autism. More research would have to be done for this to be conclusive.

One thing is agreed on in the medical fields surrounding autism; it is not a mental disorder. It is not caused by psychological problems of the parents or the child. Children are born with the disorder, or they are born with the potential to have it. Early diagnosis can help tremendously. Corrective behavior can be learned and a certain amount of independence can be established if the problem is caught early. Living with an autistic child is certainly not an easy task, but it can be easier, armed with knowledge of the disorder and taking advantage of the professional services available. There are many support groups as well. It is thought that 1.5 million people in the U.S. may have some form of autism.

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