Science Vs Autism: The Real Reason It’s Going Up
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Jun 19, 2025 The conversation dives into why autism diagnoses are climbing, examining factors like environmental toxins and genetics. Experts weigh in on the myths surrounding vaccines and discuss the impact of screen time. Historical shifts in the definition of autism are explored, revealing how perceptions and diagnosis have evolved. There’s a focus on community support for families and the strengths of the current generation on the spectrum. The analysis is thorough, shedding light on an important and complex issue.
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Genetics Major Autism Factor
- Genetics play a major role in autism, accounting for 70 to 90 percent of cases.
- Studies of siblings and identical twins strongly support the hereditary basis of autism.
Older Parents' Minor Role
- Increased parental age contributes somewhat to rising autism rates but cannot explain most of the increase.
- Births to women over 40 have tripled since 1990 but remain a small percentage overall.
Environmental Factors Limited
- Some environmental factors like air pollution and heavy metals have been studied for autism links.
- However, pollution and heavy metal levels have generally decreased, so they don't explain the increase in autism.