Research Finds Vaccines Are Not Behind the Rise in Autism. So What Is?
December 23, 2024

(New York Times) – There is no one factor that causes autism — or explains its growing prevalence. Researchers are seeking explanations for the surge. Here are some possibilities.
Autism spectrum disorder, as it is officially called, is inherently wide-ranging, marked by a blend of social and communication issues, repetitive behaviors and thinking patterns that vary in severity. A mildly autistic child could simply struggle with social cues, while a child with a severe case could be nonverbal. There is no blood test or brain scan to determine who has autism, just a clinician’s observations.
Because there is no singular cause of autism, scientists say there is therefore no singular driver behind the rise in cases. (Read More)