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Autism Society of America Position Statement on the State of the Science in Causes of Autism

 

The rate of autism is rising, and it is more important than ever that individuals and families affected by autism receive sufficient supports and services. While it is unclear what exactly has caused the uptick in official autism diagnoses, the Autism Society of America is committed to using all available scientific knowledge to address the growing needs of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

 In 2000, the prevalence rate for autism spectrum disorder was one in 150. According to the most recent data collected by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects one in 59 individuals, is reported to occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, and is more commonly diagnosed in boys.

 There is no single known cause of autism, nor is there a scientific conclusion as to why the incidence of autism is increasing. However, scientists report that there are likely many causes for multiple types of ASD, as well as many different factors that make a child more likely to have autism, including environmental, biologic and genetic factors. 

Most scientists agree that genes are also one of the risk factors that can make a person more likely to develop ASD. Other risk factors identified include:  

  • Children who have a sibling with ASD are at a higher risk of also having ASD. 
  • ASD tends to occur more often in people who have certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis.
  • When taken during pregnancy, the prescription drugs, Valproic Acid and Thalidomide, have been linked with a higher risk of ASD.
  • There is some evidence that the critical period for developing ASD occurs before, during, and immediately after birth.
  • Children born to older parents are at greater risk of having ASD.

 As autism continues to be an important public health concern, this increasing occurrence rate demands more supports and services. With the support of federal research and education, medical professionals are better able to screen and properly diagnose individuals on the spectrum. However, and most importantly, individuals and families must receive the support necessary for adjusting to life with an ASD diagnosis, including health care, education, and long-term care and services based on functional needs.

While research and funding are needed to identify cause and diagnosis, the Autism Society of America is committed to providing education, information and referral services, support, community, and advocacy at the national, state and local level.

The waiting lists for appropriate supports and services for people with developmental disabilities, including autism, is often years-long. In some states, it’s a lifetime. That is why the Autism Society of America urges federal, state, and local governments to work together to address the growing needs of people with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families.

For more information about CDC data and statistics, see CDC’s site dedicated to Autism.

Visit the Autism Society America to find out more about who we are and what we do.