What causes Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)?
It is suspected that there may be multiple causes for ASD due to a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Family studies have shed the most light on the genetic contribution to Autism. Studies of twins have shown that in identical twins there is about a 75% rate of both twins having autism, while in non-identical twins this occurs about 3% of the time. The inheritance pattern is complex and suggests that a number of genes are involved. For the majority of people with ASDs, the cause is not known; however, ASD tends to occur more frequently than expected among individuals who have certain other medical conditions, including Fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome, and untreated phenylketonuria (PKU). Some harmful substances ingested during pregnancy also have been associated with an increased risk of Autism, specifically, the prescription drug thalidomide. There is no known cure for ASDs. However, early and intensive education can help chil
