Autism, clinically named Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex condition that affects the behavior and communication of an individual. It is mainly found in children below 3 years of age.
Research suggests that environmental factors could account for 50% of the risk of developing autism spectrum disorder. Environmental risk factors could mean anything beyond genetics. Read on to understand the various environmental factors influencing autism spectrum disorder.
Even though almost 40% of autism disorder cases are linked to genetics, environmental factors obviously play a crucial role. Have a look at some of such environmental risk factors:
1. Prenatal Nutrition
During pregnancy, the offspring’s brain is developing rapidly. Therefore, a proper maternal diet is essential for its correct formation. Intake of both iron and folic acid has been proven to reduce the risks of developing autism spectrum disorders.
On the other hand, a lack of antioxidants in the diet may raise oxidative stress levels in fetal development. Such nutritional deficiency could lead to serious brain formation disruptions in the offspring.
Similarly, the lifestyle choices of the mother also have a substantial stake. Several research reports have established the connection between maternal smoking and the risk of autism.
2. Parental Age
The age of the mother at the time of conceiving the baby has a significant influence on autism. Children conceived after a maternal age of 34 may increase the risks of child autism. However, the reason behind this factor is yet to be researched and lies in various interpretations like:
- Older parents have higher chances of passing on de novo mutations (new genes) to offspring.
- They may have more exposure to worse environmental conditions, which may affect fetal development.
- Older mothers have more antibodies, which may affect the early brain development process.
3. Physical Health
Health issues during pregnancy could directly lead to autism spectrum disorder in the child. Several studies suggest that maternal bleeding, which affects up to 20% of pregnancies, elevates autism risks by 81%. Similarly, viral infections like influenza and chickenpox that occur in the first trimester of pregnancy also raise the risks of defects in neurodevelopment.
Some medications consumed may even worsen the condition. Some medications like sodium valproate were proven to cause brain-related problems in the child. The relationship between maternal usage of antidepressant drugs and autism development in children is also a topic under research.
However, it is important to note that the overall risk of health issues is lower than that of other environmental factors. Not all health conditions are linked to autism.
4. Mental Health
One of the most overlooked factors in autism development would be the mental health of the mother. Long-lasting stress, depression, or anxiety in mothers can affect fetal development.
Severe mental issues between 21-34 weeks of pregnancy will have a lasting effect on the stress response gene of the embryo. As a result, the chances for the formation of physical as well as mental defects in the child, like autism spectrum disorder, are increased.
5. Toxic Exposure
Early childhood days are the most crucial phase of the brain development process. Exposure to toxic environmental substances during that phase will considerably increase the chances of autism in the child.
Mercury, a heavy chemical found in fish and vaccines, is found to increase the risk of autism. Similarly, lead also has the ability to disturb the average growth of the baby’s neuro system.
And it’s not just about the pollutants. In fact, many parents are pursuing a baby food autism lawsuit to hold manufacturers like Gerber accountable for the potential harm caused by these contaminants.
Several experts have expressed concerns over the potentially toxic ingredients in child nutrition foods and supplements. As per TorHoerman Law, even a multidistrict litigation (MDL) was set up to handle lawsuits against baby food manufacturers specifically.
6. Inflammation
Inflammation is the biological response towards harmful stimuli such as wounds, pathogens, etc. Some theories suggest a direct relationship between inflammation and the development of autism in children. A recent report found mothers who have higher interleukin-17a levels (an inflammation causing element) can alter brain developments in the newborn.
Gut inflammation can lead to gastrointestinal problems, which may leave the brain vulnerable to toxins. As a result, the neuro system in the brain may get affected and trigger significant disorders like autism spectrum disorder.
The connection between environmental factors and autism spectrum disorder in children is a matter of debate. One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of child mental disorders is the intake of natural nutrient foods during pregnancy. Last but not least, remember that early diagnosis and treatment of autism can significantly reduce the effects of the disorder.
