Autism Spectrum Disorder ( Asd ) - 2307 Words

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a life-long developmental disorder with a neuro-biological basis that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. A diagnosis of ASD now includes several conditions that formerly were diagnosed separately: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, and Asperger syndrome. ASD varies significantly in character and severity, it occurs in all ethnic and socioeconomic groups and affects every age group. Males are four times more likely to have an ASD than females (NINDS, 2014). There is no known cure for autism, and scientists are not certain what causes autism. There are essentially two theories as to the causation of ASD: genetic predisposition†¦show more content†¦Exposure to and use of these products could be responsible for gene mutation and therefore ASD. The EPA studies report that everyone has PCB’s (polychlorinated biphenyls) in their body. Phthalates, used in shampoos, cosmetic products, as plasticizers for water bottles, and denaturants in other food products, is a known endocrine and hormone disrupter and is one of many suspected toxins when it comes to the cause of autism (NIEHS, 2014). Over the last 20 years there has been a rapid rise in the rate of autism. The overarching consensus is that no matter the genesis for ASD, it results in abnormalities in brain structure and function. Identifying causation may lead to a cure, or the ability to identify genetic markers for the disorder. Finding causation could help us eliminate known teratogens from our environment, foods, and products still being used today. ASD is difficult to diagnose because there is no one medical test to diagnose the disorder. Some people have been misdiagnosed with other conditions such as mental retardation, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, nonverbal learning disability and other various types of emotional disorders. These traits that have been closely associated with ASD. Diagnosis [of Asperger’s Syndrome] tends to center primarily on difficulties with social interactions (Autism Speaks, 2014). People with