Autism is a developmental disorder. Autism is thought to be caused due to structural or functional damage to the nervous system or due to some genetic factors but the exact cause is not known. There are no sure causes of autism and hence it is not possible to prevent autism. Let us learn about some possible causes of autism, read on.
Day by day autism is becoming an issue of concern. Autism causes impairment in the development of the child. However, we have learnt about its symptoms, treatments etc, but very little is known about the causes of autism. There are no certain causes of autism but experts and researchers agree that genetic and environmental factors are likely to cause the autism spectrum disorder.
Another research indicates that autism could be the result of anything that causes functional and structural damage to the nervous system. Moreover, a theory indicates that certain children while in the womb or sometime after birth are born with genetic tendencies for autism which is later generated by certain environmental factors
Currently, it is believed that 10% of autism cases are due to genetic factors. It is very difficult to tell parents about why their child is autistic because the reasons are not known. This can be very disheartening and frustrating for parents but instead of worrying, parents should focus on the treatments available for the autism to give their child a happy and fulfilled life.
Causes of Autism in Children
Here are the causes of autism:
Genetic Causes of Autism in Children
Genetic factors could be one of the causes of autism in children. Research shows that spontaneous DNA mutations and inherited genetic glitches could lead to the development of autism. However, scientists say that it is not one particular gene that could cause autism but a group of 5 to 20 major genes are involved in autism.
Studies have shown that the chance of having an autistic child in the increases if the parents have had autistic family members. Also, older parents have a higher risk of having autistic children. Another study indicates that families with one autistic child are at risk of having another child with autism.
Environmental Causes of Autism in Children
Apart from genetic factors scientists believe that environmental factors could also trigger autism. Scientists are looking for environmental explanations because only genetic factors alone are not responsible for autism.
Environmental factors like air pollution, food adulteration, insecticides, flame-retardants, pesticides, chemicals used to make synthetic materials and plastics, pollutants and other dangerous external elements may cause autism in individuals by disturbing the development of the brain or by turning on a genetic vulnerability.
Vaccinations and Autism
Vaccines are important for the child as it helps in protecting it from diseases and other dangers. As you cannot protect your child from the inherited genes and other harmful environmental factors, vaccines are a must.
Some research indicated that vaccinations could also cause autism. However, another scientific research does not support this theory. Vaccines do not cause autism. Vaccines on the other hand provide a protective shield to children against harmful health risks like meningitis, measles, tetanus; polio etc. Safety studies and other scientific research have been unable to find any connection between autism and vaccinations.
These are some of the causes which have been laid down by scientists and researchers. However, the exact cause of autism is not known yet hence, it cannot be prevented. But with the help of various treatments and therapies, the life of children with autism can improve considerably with a consistent and structured intervention. Parent support and love can also create a positive attitude in the child.
What are the causes of autism? Does your child have autism? Do genetics cause autism? Are environmental factors responsible for autism in individuals? Can autism be prevented?
