Autism

The rate of autism has increased 2,000 percent in the last 20 years, and ADHD now affects at least one in ten children. Autism is diagnosed over four times more often in boys than girls, and there is a specific reason. Since autism had its first diagnosis in America, its incidence has climbed to an alarming 1 in 88 children. According to officials at the National Institutes of Health, there are documented environmental components to autism. Therefore, the rapid rise in the rate of autism over the last 20 years cannot be attributed solely to genetics, as is often reported by mainstream sources.

Autism is a neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of three and impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, neuromuscular skills, and cognitive function. Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in America with no predictable end in sight.

The Documented Environmental Causes of Autism

Based on parental reports, sharp regression has occurred in children directly following immunizations. More sparsely, some report swift regression following an illness, use of antibiotics, or random chemical exposure such as to carpet cleaning. Though published science and mainstream media often fail to acknowledge a link to any of these specific exposures, it is vital that parental accounts be carefully considered.

A recent review of the world’s medical literature suggests that underlying biochemical abnormalities are likely involved in environmental susceptibilities and the development of autism including mitochondrial dysfunction, immune dysregulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, methylation problems, and toxicity.

While mainstream science often discounts vaccinations as a cause, members of the National Autism Association feel that an overly aggressive vaccination schedule coupled with toxic vaccine adjuvants are a definitive piece of the autism puzzle. As with any medication, adverse events do happen. Vaccinations are no exception, thus insurance codes do exist for adverse vaccine reactions. Research to investigate and reduce adverse events in immunized individuals is currently nonexistent.

Pesticide exposure, limited prenatal nutrition, maternal age at time of conception, and prenatal exposure to SSRI drugs, valproic acid, and thalidomide have all drawn warranted suspicion as links to autism.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Autism can range from mild to very severe with respect to social impairments, cognitive impairments, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors. Lack of eye contact, facial expression, gesturing, proper vocal expression, and an inability to react to familiar voices or to visually follow objects have all been observed in various developmental ages of those affected.

Research shows that many individuals with autism spectrum disorders have underlying medical issues that frequently go undiagnosed and can cause or exacerbate symptoms of autism. These issues are known to include allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, persistent viral infections, feeding disorders, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, food sensitivities, and sleeping disorders. Addressing these underlying issues can greatly improve some of the behaviors and symptoms associated with autism.

Medical Treatment

Currently there is no cure for autism, though with early intervention and treatment, the diverse symptoms related to autism can be greatly improved and, in some cases, completely overcome. No medication can improve the core signs of autism, but certain medications attempt to control symptoms. Antidepressants may be prescribed for anxiety, and antipsychotic drugs are sometimes used to treat severe behavioral problems. Other medications may be prescribed if the child is hyperactive. As always, medications can often cause unwanted side effects.

The range of home-based and school-based interventions for autism can be overwhelming. The goal of treatment is to maximize the child’s ability to function by reducing symptoms and supporting development and learning. Treatment options may include behavior and communication therapy, educational therapy, and family therapy. Children with autism often respond well to highly structured educational programs which often include a team of specialists and a variety of activities where family members can learn how to play and interact with their children in ways that promote social interaction and proper communication.