Causes
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning that problems in brain development cause autism. Scientists are searching for answers about what causes these development problems. Studies suggest:
- Autism seems to run in some families; several genes may be involved.
- Problems during pregnancy or delivery may interfere with normal brain development.
- Something in the environment that a child is exposed to may be a factor.
Risk Factors
These factors increase your chance of developing autism:
- Sex: male (Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls.)
- Family history: Siblings of a child with autism have a 3%-7% chance of being autistic.
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A number of other conditions are associated with autism, although the relationship between them is not clear:
- Neurofibromatosis
- Tuberous sclerosis
- Fragile X syndrome
- Phenylketonuria (PKU)
- Möbius syndrome
- Epilepsy
- Herpes encephalitis
- Cytomegalovirus
- Problems during pregnancy or delivery
- Contracting rubella during pregnancy (a risk for the child)
The Conditions Above Primarily Affect the Central Nervous System
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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