Risk Factors for Autism

Almost 10 – 15% of all babies are born with some neurodevelopment disorder and autism is one of leading disorders found. The following 6 risk factors include both avoidable and sometimes unavoidable reasons; but, the first step is to be prepared and informed about the same This information is on the risk factors that can cause Autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders.

• C-Sections

Babies born via cesarean section rather than normal delivery have an increased chance of developing neurodevelopment disorders like autism. This fact is important because almost one in three babies is born using this method. The reason behind the increased risk to babies born by C-Section is because they are delivered before their due date, this aspect creates an impact as their neurodevelopment may not be complete at the time of delivery. Also, medically-induced labor can also increase the risk factors for autism spectrum disorders. Even a few weeks or days affects the baby’s development, so it is very important for every new mother to consider every birthing option before committing to a C-Section.

• Maternal Antibodies

An important risk factor for unborn children developing neurodevelopment disorders is something the mother’s own body creates, called maternal antibodies. These maternal antibodies bind themselves to proteins that affect cognition and other neurological-related aspects of fetal development.

• Placenta Abnormalities

Placentas with abnormal structures were prevalent in children who had neurodevelopment issues like autism. Though it is too early to say that the presence of these structures is a direct cause of autism, early intervention could be a crucial step in aiding a child with an autism spectrum disorder.

• Smoking

Everyone is aware of the health issues and diseases caused by smoking and this lead to, such as respiratory issues, cancer etc, but smoking while pregnant can also lead to autism in children.

• Air Pollution

Air pollution leads to diseases like asthma and even it affects the size of organs over time, new research shows that certain particles can also lead to increased risks for autism.

• Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine disruptors are so prevalent and so harmful and a topic which is more in the discussion. It is seen that men are four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, which leads many specialists to believe that these disorders are hormone related.