Every month I try to find a topic that is relative to what is being talked about, and sure enough, determining “the cause of Autism” is receiving airtime. At the time of writing this article, it was recently reported that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy could be a primary cause of Autism. I’m admittedly not a doctor and am in no position to argue what is right. What’s interesting and worth noting is that there are disagreements and debates on all sides on this subject.
Clearly, the sharp increase in Autism diagnoses (now one in 31 children) and associated costs for care have influenced the discussion on this subject. While it has been referred to by some as an epidemic, experts have attributed the increase to broader diagnostic criteria, increased public awareness, and more comprehensive case-finding. While family studies have shown a high degree of heritability for Autism, the interaction between genetics and environmental factors remains a debated topic.
Other causes have received notable attention. Years ago, the theory in the mid-20th century was that mothers were blamed for causing Autism because of their lack of maternal warmth for their child. Seeing firsthand at Little Friends how mothers work with their children on the Autism spectrum, I can validate that this idea is nonsense. I don’t have to be a doctor to know what I observe most every day.
Another topic that has received a fair amount of attention related to the link between the Measles vaccination (MMR) and Autism. While there have been several scientific studies indicating that there is not a connection between the vaccination and Autism, several people have gone on record to state they believe this is a cause. The original study published in 1998 on this subject was retracted due to the design and methods of the study.
Maybe one of the more interesting debates involves the perspective that Autism is a disorder or disability, emphasizing the medical/support needs of individuals on the spectrum. The other side of this debate is that Autism is a variation in neurology, not an illness or defect. Advocates for this vantage point strongly push for an inclusive society where individuals can thrive as the people they are without pressure to change.
I have read that there are intentions to publish information sooner than later that will provide us with new answers about Autism. Based upon what I have learned and continue to read, my strong suspicion is that regardless of what is published, the debates and conversation about the causes will continue.
Maybe what’s more important is that the information provided to the marketplace helps us all better understand Autism, with hopes of helping create a more inclusive environment for individuals on the Autism Spectrum to thrive and succeed.
