Autism Research and Realities: A Perspective from the Ackerman Center
A message from Dr. Gaspar De Alba, Developmental Pediatrics, Autism at the Ackerman Center.
There has been a lot in the news recently about autism spectrum disorder, its possible causes and the developmental potential of individuals with autism. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with multifactorial etiology, involving both genetic and environmental factors. Atempts to find a single cause of autism have been unsuccessful. This shouldn’t be surprising given how heterogeneous the autism spectrum is.
We know genetic contributions are significant, with numerous genes implicated, many of which overlap with other neuropsychiatric and medical conditions. Many environmental factors have been studied as well using appropriate and rigorous scientific methods. While no one factor or exposure has been found to be directly causative, several have been determined to be risk factors.
The specific amount of risk attributable to any of these factors or exposures, many of which may occur during critical windows of neurodevelopmental vulnerability in the prenatal period, has been difficult to determine because they are hard to isolate to study. (Among the those indicated as risks are advanced parental age, prenatal exposure to certain medications, maternal infections, maternal inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, and metabolic conditions such as diabetes and obesity during pregnancy.)
Due to the concerns over vaccines as risk factors, there have been numerous large high-quality studies that have found no increased risk of autism associated with MMR, thimerosal, or mercury exposure. The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated, “Studies have repeatedly found no credible link between life-saving childhood vaccines and autism.”
While the precise mechanisms behind the development of an autism spectrum disorder remain incompletely understood, the complex interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental exposures is believed to contribute to the development of ASD. The complexity of this interaction underscores the need for further high-quality scientific research to elucidate the specific pathways involved and to identify potential preventive strategies.
Misinformation about children with autism, whether about their developmental potential, false links to vaccinations, or other unverified and speculative environmental exposures, does a disservice to them and their families. These children and their families deserve support and evidence-based interventions so that they can thrive, and each reach their potential. We have worked with thousands of wonderful children and families and have seen amazing outcomes but also heartbreaking disappointments. We fully support ongoing research of not just possible contributing causes but also of novel and effective treatments so that we can provide the best possible care and support to these amazing children and their families and give them the best possible chance to lead happy, independent, and productive lives.
