Can autism lead to a disease?

Answer 1

AnswersBefore reading the suggested answers below you have to ask what definition of disease you are using. The medical definition of disease is as follows "Any bodily abnormality or failure to function properly..." or "A disorder with a specific (known or unknown) cause". (Oxford Medical Dictionary). But before anybody thinks that this is the end of the story is mistaken. The definition within the community is constantly changing and many now define "disease" a lot differently than previously. Neither definition is wrong and both have their merits. It is up to the individual to decide their own understanding of "disease"

The definition of Disease is ever changing within the community, but in the medical community it is generally used to apply to anything other than normal bodily function. Many would argue that it is unknown if there is a specific cause for the disease and therefore it cannot fit either definition of disease.

In community many would say Autism is not a disease at all. Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder. It is in the genes. A person is born with it. And this is true using the community's (and politically correct) definition of "disease". But the medical community would suggest that going by the textbook definition of disease, it technically is. It is an impairment in neurological functioning; that is, the brain is not working as it typically would in most individuals. It is generally accepted that it is genetic, meaning people are born with this.

So in conclusion, it is a disease, yet it is not a disease. It is up to you to decide which definition makes the most sense to you.

Answer 2

No, Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the first 3 years of life, and affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills.

Sources: See full page at the attached related link.

Answer 3

No, Autism is not a disease and it cannot lad to disease.

Autism is a difference in the brain, like different skin or eye colour it's a normal variation in human beings and it is not something that causes disease. Referring to Autism as a disease is highly offensive.

Answer 4

In short people think that autism is a disease because people are ignorant. Autism is a neurological difference but people will sometimes mistake it for a psychological problem or disease. If you meet someone who believes that autism is a disease then simply explain to them that it's not the case.

Answer 5

Anything that is unknown or poorly understood gets labeled a "disease" in layman's terms. Professionals do not yet fully understand the cause or causes, or how to prevent it. Autism is a chronic condition. It is not progressive, nor contagious. Functioning can be improved, somewhat.

Answer 6

No, Autism is not a disease at all. Autism is a neurological difference, it is known as Autism Spectrum Disorder and can sometimes be considered a disability.

Answer 7

Would you consider absolute pitch, blindness, or Allergies illnesses? These are all conditions -- there's no sickness here.

Answer 8

Autism is a disease.

Answer 9

Yes it is a mental illness of the brain.

Answer 10

No - autism is a neurological condition.