Since April is Autism Awareness Month, it seems very fitting to learn about!
Autism is characterized by difficulty communicating, repetitive or obsessive behaviors, and sensitivity to light and materials. According to the CDC, 1 in 68 people in the US are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disease. Breaking that up even further, 1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls. Children can be diagnosed as early as 2 years old, however it is usually not until age 4 or 6 in the case of Asperger’s disorder.
So why the gap between the genders? Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder are often displayed more in men and boys such as the repetitive behaviors and lack of communication skills. However, girls tend to internalize behaviors are more likely to exhibit shyness that may be overlooked. Often times their fixation is something that other girls are likely to enjoy as well such as horses or animals. Females also tend to be more social beings and have more verbal skills then males which could contribute to the oversight. There is a hypothesis that a genetic contributor to the cause of autism is on the X chromosome (pictured in pink). Because males only have one, they are more likely to exhibit autistic tendencies than a girl with two X chromosomes.
Y and X chromosome
But beyond that, what is the cause? There are many misconceptions about its cause because it is very poorly understood. There are likely many contributing factors such as the environment, especially during development. If a mother gets sick or gets an infection during the pregnancy (especially during a critical time) it can increase the child’s risk for autism. Immunity problems in the mother, such as an autoimmune disease or fighting an infection, can produce antibodies in her body that can cross the placenta and interfere with fetal brain development. Often times if there is a disruption or abnormal function of the immune system in the fetus it can lead to inflammation causing even further damage.
An IgG that is able to cross the placenta.
It has also been seen that zinc deficiency during gestation plays a role in abnormal cell function as well. Zinc is very important in cell division, protein interaction, and healing. Low zinc levels have been found in people with autism. It is important to get the proper amount of zinc (12-13 mg/day) while pregnant or breast feeding.
Age of parents is also a risk factor, especially if the mother is older than 35 and the father is older than 40. It is important to also include genetic contributions as a potential contributing factors. There are mutated genes associated with autism, but no definitive relationship. Interestingly, some of the genes in question are related to zinc function in the body.
It is important that people are properly educated as to what is known about autism. When reading information about autism and its cause it is essential to check the credibility of the source and the studies that support it. People with autism can be very highly functioning, or may need a lot of help – that is why there is a spectrum. It is important to be respectful, understanding, and patient if people with autism have trouble communicating. We are making progress when it comes to awareness. Meet Julia, a little girl with autism who is the newest addition to the cast of Sesame Street!
