Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects one in 68 people in the United States. It is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in the structure or function of the brain, and research suggests that it develops from a combination of genetic and non-genetic or environmental influences. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism compared to neurotypical children. It is not clear exactly why autism occurs, but it could be due to problems in parts of the brain that interpret sensory input and process language.
A variety of genetic factors are likely to be the main cause of most cases of autism, and these can work on their own, or in combination with environmental factors, to lead the child's brain to develop differently and cause autistic behaviors. Environmental factors may also play a role in gene function and development, but specific environmental causes have not yet been identified. Multiple studies have shown that vaccination to prevent childhood infectious diseases does not increase the risk of autism in the population. Imaging studies of people with ASD have found differences in the development of several regions of the brain.
Studies suggest that ASD could be the result of alterations in normal brain growth very early in development. These alterations can result from defects in genes that control brain development and regulate the way brain cells communicate with each other. Autism is more common in children who are born prematurely. The exact genetic abnormalities that can lead to the remaining cases of autism are not entirely clear. As they interact with others, autistic children may find it difficult to share their emotions and interests with others or find it difficult to have a conversation back and forth.
However, the frequency of vaccination remains a difficult decision, as many have hypothesized that viral infections may also contribute to the onset of autism. In conclusion, there is no single known cause for autism spectrum disorder, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in the structure or function of the brain. Research suggests that autism develops from a combination of genetic and non-genetic or environmental influences. A variety of genetic factors are likely to be the main cause of most cases of autism, while environmental factors may also play a role. Multiple studies have shown that vaccination to prevent childhood infectious diseases does not increase the risk of autism in the population.
