Causes of Autism

Until recently, most scientists believed that autism is caused mostly by genetic factors. But currently new research indicates that environmental factors may also be important in the development of autism. Babies may be born with a genetic vulnerability to autism that is then triggered by something in the external environment, either while he or she is still in the womb or sometime after birth. It’s important to note that the environment, in this context, means anything outside the body. It’s not limited to things like pollution or toxins in the atmosphere. In fact, one of the most important environments appears to be the prenatal environment.

Prenatal factors that may contribute to autism

Taking antidepressants during pregnancy, especially in the first 3 months Nutritional deficiencies early in pregnancy, particularly not getting enough folic acid The age of the mother and father Complications at or shortly after birth, including very low birth weight and new-born anemia Maternal infections during pregnancy Exposure to chemical pollutants, such as metals and pesticides, while pregnant