Paternal Age and Autism: Is There a Link?
A growing body of research suggests a link between paternal age and the risk of autism. A 2011 study published in Molecular Psychiatry, which analyzed data from over 5.7 million children in five countries, found that the chance of having a child with autism was higher among older fathers. Specifically, fathers in their 40s had […]
Chemicals That Cause Autism
Ever wondered how the everyday chemicals around us might impact our health, especially concerning autism? From household cleaners to pesticides, the chemicals we encounter in daily life are under scrutiny for their potential role in autism. Several studies have identified chemicals as potential contributors to the development of autism. In this article, we’ll explore what […]
Understanding Neurodivergent Traits
Imagine a world where every brain works differently, each one unique and special in its own way. This is the world of neurodiversity, where the term “neurodivergent” is used to describe individuals whose brains function differently from the typical or “neurotypical” patterns. Understanding neurodivergent traits helps us appreciate the diverse ways people think, learn, and […]
How Do Neurodivergent Brains Work?
The term “neurodivergent” was coined by Judy Singer back in 1990s to help others understand that individuals with neurodivergent conditions have brains that function differently from the “neurotypical” majority. Neurotypical individuals are described as those whose brains function in a “typical” way, while neurodivergent individuals have brains that work in unique and distinctive ways. Meanwhile, […]
What Falls Under Neurodivergent?
Neurodiversity refers to the idea that there is natural variation in how human brains function. It recognizes that individuals with neurodivergent conditions, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, exhibit fundamental differences in social understanding, sensory perception, and information processing. Instead of viewing these differences as deficits or disorders, neurodiversity considers them as natural variations […]
Asperger’s: Genetic or Environmental?
Imagine a world where every individual’s unique quirks and talents are not just products of their environment but are intricately woven into their very DNA. This is the intriguing realm we enter when exploring Asperger’s syndrome – a condition that has long puzzled scientists and clinicians alike. Are these distinct traits and behaviors we see […]
Can Asperger’s Run in Families?
Have you ever wondered if Asperger’s syndrome runs in families? The idea that autism spectrum disorders, including Asperger’s, might be influenced by genetics is not just a theory but a widely accepted concept in the scientific community. With heritability estimates ranging from 64 to 91%, it’s clear that our genes play a significant role. However, […]
Why is Asperger’s Now Called Autism?
In recent years, the term Asperger’s Syndrome has faded from medical vocabulary and was replaced by the broader label of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This shift has sparked curiosity, confusion, and a wave of questions among individuals, families, and even professionals. Why has Asperger’s, a name that held significant meaning and identity for many, been […]
Why the Increase in Autism?
The rates of autism in the United States have shown a steady increase over time. In 2012, the reported numbers indicated that 1 in 88 children had autism. By 2014, this figure decreased to 1 in 68 children. The latest data suggests a further increase, with the prevalence now estimated to be 1 in 36 […]