Recent studies show that autism is growing

Recent studies show that autism is growing

Recent studies by the Institute For People With Disabilities in New York have shown that the frequency previously accepted for many years is now at the low level. The previous incidence figures were that 1 in 166 children had autism to some degree, but these studies now show the figure is closer to 1 in 150.

There are many possible explanations for this increase. One group suggests that as we begin to better understand autism, the definition of what autism is has expanded to include children who would not have been included in the statistics. But even with this expanded definition, many of the children who are now part of these statistics have a very mild form of autism, where it is questionable whether or not the line has been crossed from very mild autism or simply a standard case of Asperger's syndrome.

The actual cause of autism or Asperger's is still unknown, and there is no conclusive scientific evidence to suggest that there is anything very specific that can be linked to the cause. Some thoughts are that there is something in these children that predisposes them to autism and that something happens early in their lives that triggers it. Some thoughts point to the possibility of a viral illness, similar to children who are diagnosed with diabetes at an early age.

Although there is no cure, autism, like almost any other condition, is best treated when diagnosed as early as possible. Parents must be aware of the symptoms of autism and not be afraid to have their child examined by a doctor who is familiar with autism and its symptoms. Depending on the diagnosis, there is a wide range of possible treatments, ranging from medication to simple early intervention services. One problem is that a very young child does not yet have a sense of what is normal, so the child may not realize that something is wrong, making it even more important that parents are aware of the symptoms of autism and can pay attention to it.

Some recent studies have suggested that oxytocin plays an important role in autism. This is a hormone that is produced by the pituitary gland and appears to play an important role in social behavior. Studies are being conducted to see the effects of administering oxytocin in various forms, including intravenously.

As the reported number of diagnosed cases of autism grows, more and more studies are being funded to determine the root cause. But the best defense at this time is to be aware of the symptoms of autism and Asperger's and, when these symptoms present themselves, to receive an early diagnosis.

Inspired by Jon Arnold