Autism is caused by certain genes and by damage to those genes by environmental factors e.g. exposure to chemicals, allergies, immunizations, and drugs in utero. Just as each
…child is impacted differently by autism, the causes are just as unique from child to child. One example of a known and scientifically recognised cause of autism is the anticonvulsant drug sodium valproate (epilim / depakote) which, when taken by pregnant women, causes a 10% risk of autism in unborn babies. This drug is still marketed to women of childbearing age, most of whom are not warned of the risk to their unborn child. You can't "catch" autism, any more than you can catch blue eyes or brown hair. There is no known cure for autism, although various therapies (e.g. gluten-free, dairy-free diet, although it is a very small percentage that benefits from this diet) do make a difference to outcomes for people with autism. Most beneficial and scientifically proven treatment is Applied Behavioral Analysis utilizing the verbal behavior approach. Genetic therapy is looking promising for the future of people with autism. Usually when you're conceived in your mother's womb The autism spectrum often involves genetics. There is no one cause for autism, and the reason for most cases remains a mystery beyond genes. ( Full Answer )