Autism Researchers Explore Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors

Comments

Genetic Factors
Johanna Deahl

5/8/2009 5:45:50 PM

 Genetics definately are a factor in my biological family. Twenty-eight family members who are affected by Autism Spectrum disorders, all have just slightly different variables. And I have a 14 yr. old son who can not get the NEEDED diagnosis (to probably save his life) because of the specialist doctors I've gone to keep saying: "Yes, it's there BUT I will not give him the diagnosis he because he'll have a problem getting health insurance as an adult!"

environmental risk factors
Paul Patterson

5/8/2009 3:41:38 PM

 Other environmental risk factors are maternal infection and maternal thalidomide or valproate exposure. These exposures strongly increase the frequency of ASD features in the offspring. These are also consistent with the premature birth risk factor.