Autism is a brain development disorder that impairs a person's social skills and ability to communicate. The cause of autism is unknown. Three studies, however, have now shown that premature birth may increase the risk of autism and related disorders.WebMD: Study Suggests Preemie, Autism Link (January 29, 2009)

There has been some speculation that autism can be caused by vaccines, and thousands of people have filed claims with the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program at the Department of Health and Human Services. On February 12, 2009, a special court ruled against over 4,800 claims, saying that autism in those cases were not caused by vaccines.CNN: Vaccine didn't cause autism, court rules (February 12, 2009)

The cause is unknown, although researchers have linked a number of gene defects to autism. It is believed that a number of different genes when combined together, increase the risk of developing autism. When a family has one child with autism it raises their chances of having another child with autism. In some cases, autism is linked to another underlying medical condition.

Children with autism have difficulty with development in three important areas: social skills, language and behavior. In the most severe cases children with autism are completely unable to communicate with others.

Since no two cases of autism are alike, a treatment program needs to be developed on an individual basis. Early intervention has been shown to help a child with autism reach their full potential.

1. Poor eye contact
2. Won't respond to their name
3. Appears to not hear you
4. Resists being cuddled
5. Seems unaware of others' feelings
6. Prefers being alone in their "own world"

1. Talking later than others
2. Loses ability to say words
3. No eye contact when making a request
4. Robotic or sing song speech
5. Can't start or keep a conversation going
6. Repeats words and phrases but doesn't understand how to use them

1. Repetitive movements
2. Specific routines or rituals
3. Moves constantly
4. Fascination with moving objects
5. Sensitive to light, sound and touch

According to a study released in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, a link has been shown between high levels of precipitation and increased incidences of autism. While no direct causal relationship has been determined, the study has raised some intriguing questions.LA Times: Link found between autism and rainfall (November 3, 2008)

There has been speculation that autism can be caused by common vaccines given to children, such as measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. Thousands of families have filed claims with the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program at the Department of Health and Human Services. On February 12, 2009, a special court ruled against over 4,800 claims, saying that autism in those cases were not caused by vaccines. Studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and the Institute of Medicine have found no credible link between vaccines and autism.CNN: Vaccine didn't cause autism, court rules (February 12, 2009)

In March of 2009, researches from Yale were given a grant to embark on a new autism study that focuses on the differences in what captures the autistic child's attention in contrast to those without autism. Inspired by a 15-month old autistic girl who showed clear signs that she was only affected by audio-visual stimulation, the research team began studying autistic toddlers, who showed the same preference. The new study is intended to determine the exact moment when these attention differences appear, and if there is a way to alter the pattern, creating new therapies that can redirect their attention.WebMD: Autism: New Clue to Earlier Detection (March 29, 2009)

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are concerned about autism, please consult your doctor.