Suspected Causes of Autism
Although extremely frustrating for individuals experts suspect autism is caused by environmental or genetically related factors. But the fact remains that the scientific community does not know how or what actually is the cause of autism. Fortunately, however, interest has sparked a rise in funding for autism research. This should provide more accurate information in the months and years to come.
As there is no known cause for autism, it has spun a web of passionate people who hold Strong believes in their reasoning for the cause of autism. TV programs, books and articles have all raised awareness and by doing so are heating up the argument. You will find some of the various theories, which all have supporters contained below.
Autism is caused by vaccines? Currently, this is not substantiated or disapproved by the medical community. It is speculated that MMR or mumps, measles, rubella vaccine initiates intestinal problems, these intestinal problems, then lead to individuals developing autism. Another theory along this line is that many vaccines in the past carried thimerosal, which contains mercury and believed that the mercury causes autism.
Do genetics cause autism? Research studies point to a connection in families that have autistic members. In these studies individuals from autistic families were at increased risk of having autistic children. The studies also revealed that if the family had one autistic child, that it increased the chance of having another autistic child.
Bad parenting causes autism? The simple answer is no. Unfortunately, the doctor who first diagnosed or identified autism had the notion that refrigerator moms were the cause of autism. Dr. Kanner's was completely and totally wrong, however an entire generation of parents were left convinced that they, inflicted this disability on their child. For the new generation of parents we have been spared such a burden.
Atypical brain development causes autism? This is currently unknown, and is being researched at the University of Pittsburgh. However, there has been some research to indicate that autistic individual’s brains are larger and process information quite differently.
Immune deficiency problems cause autism? There are physical issues that autistic individuals often display that may be related to an immune deficiency. Research is still developing, and there's currently no evidence to support even a casual relationship at this time.
Do food allergies cause autism? There may be evidence that certain food, like those that contain gluten or cassein may contribute to autism. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this.
Poor nutrition causes autism? Although currently there are megavitamin therapies that have been used for years in the treatment of autistic in patients. It would seem a lack of nutrition, would not cause autism.
One of the difficulties in determining the causes of autism is that each autistic individual has varying degrees of symptoms. This makes it very difficult for the medical community to try and pinpoint one exact cause. That said, it is more than likely a combination of any such factors as environmental toxins, food allergies, some form of genetics. The actual cause for autism may never be found. |
