A lack of understanding has surrounded autism until recently, as the newest research has begun to shed a light on the potential causes of the disorder iconic of Sheldon Cooper from the Big Bang Theory. Autism is a spectral disorder, meaning its manifests itself in a wide variety of forms, affecting people in a several different ways. There are several genetic mutations that are thought to be associated with the neurological disease, as well as many environmental factors that play a role. As of late, researchers have identified that most of these factors are interrelated, generally resulting in zinc deficiency and/or immune system abnormalities. In turn, dysfunctional synapses in the brain can occur, leading to the impaired social interactions and unique behavioral characteristics we see in those with autism. Some of the many environmental causes identified as risk factors for autism include parental age, prenatal viral infection, maternal diabetes, pre- and perinatal stress, as well as gastrointestinal abnormalities, often called “leaky guy syndrome”.
For example, increased parental age has been shown to increase the likelihood of autism in the child. This is due to the fact that as parents age, there is an increased rate of mutation in the sperm from the father, leading to genetic mutations in the child. When a pregnant mother contracts various bacterial or viral infections there is also an increased risk of autism. Influenza, rubella, and cytomegalovirus are the most common of these infections. Maternal diabetes during pregnancy has been cited to cause a two-fold increased risk of autism in the child. In terms of stress, pregnant mothers release hormones when under stressful situations, which can cross the placenta and affect neurodevelopment of the fetus, resulting in an increased risk for autism. Lastly, several studies have listed gastrointestinal abnormalities as a risk factor for autism as many parents report digestion issues in their children affected by autism.
In addition, many skeptics argue that vaccinations may cause some sort of increased risk of autism. However, an abounding amount of research has argued the opposite: that there is no relationship between vaccines and risk of autism. Yet it seems so often we hear of new studies investigating the possible link. So my question is why are we still funding research on vaccines and autism? Is it worth the money we spend searching for a scare that has been denied by study after study? How are those that choose not to get vaccinated affecting our population and immunity as a whole? All questions quite debatable, and multi-faceted certainly, but how can we ignore the scientific evidence that ultimately says there is no link between autism and vaccination? Definitely something to think about and consider, especially for all the expecting parents out there.
Autism: More Than Just Genetics
