Known Causes and Risk Factors

I have been asked what I know about the causes of autism. The first response I give... "not very much." Then I explain that there is still a lot of research needed. There are new theories almost every day about the causes of autism. Most of the data I've found so far shows that the most likely culprits include:

• Genetics 
• Environmental Factors
• Mother's health during pregnancy
• Some drugs taken during pregnancy have been linked to a higher risk of ASD (autism spectrum disorder) valproic acid and thalidomide have been linked with a higher risk of ASDs.
• Autism tends to occur more often with other neurological disorders
• premature and low birth weight has been linked to autism as well

http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/research.html
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/autism/DS00348/DSECTION=causes

Last year we hear about obesity, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes being linked to having a child with ASD. It is believed that they are linked to but are not believed to be a true "cause" of autism. Advanced age of the parent, especially the father is a known risk factor, as well as the mother's health prior to pregnancy.

http://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/2012/04/13/perspective-maternal-obesity-autism

News reports constantly update us when they find or identify any potential cause of autism now, especially since the word is getting out more and more. It is a blessing to have wonderful celebrities like Holly Robinson Peete, Dan Marino and Jacqueline Laurita speak out about their kiddos who are on the spectrum.

From a mother's heart - I know there are other factors, but I have chosen the ones that I have found the most data on.