Family History — Does It Play a Role in Autism?
The prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been on the rise over the last 20 years. Today, it’s estimated that roughly one in 36 children have ASD, with is a significant jump from the rate of one in 44 children that was measured in 2018.
Much research has been done into this rise in autism rates, and into ASD in general, which has led to more knowledge about the neurodevelopmental disorder today than even 10 years ago.
One of the biggest areas of research has been on the potential causes of autism, and whether certain people are more susceptible to the disorder than others are. In other words, are genetics a primary driver of whether a child has ASD, or are there other factors, such as family history, at play?
There isn’t a straightforward answer at this point, though it is known that family history does play a role in autism.
Below, we’ll discuss the role that family history plays in autism, as well as some other potential factors.
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What Role Does Family History Play in Autism?
What we know to this point is that family history does play a significant role in whether a child has autism — although not always.
For instance, studies have suggested that when a child is diagnosed with autism, the next child of the same parents has a 20% greater chance to also have autism1, compared to their older neurotypical siblings. If the first two children are diagnosed with ASD, the chances increase to 32% to the subsequent third child.
Other studies have been conducted into twins. For instance, studies have indicated that as much as 90% of the differences between non-autistic and autistic twins are based on genetics2. That number is on the higher end of the spectrum, though.
One thing that adds some confusion to the mix is that there isn’t a single “autism gene.” By contrast, there are more than 800 genes that autism is associated with3, which makes it harder to specifically identify a family history in the development of ASD.
What Other Factors Contribute to Autism?
Genetics isn’t the only factor that plays a role in autism development. There are many other factors, some environmental, that are believed to be major contributing factors to whether a child develops ASD.
These include …
- Gender: Boys are about eight times more likely to develop ASD than girls are. There are some studies that suggest reasons why this figure might not be accurate, but for now, that is the commonly-held belief in the field.
- Age of parents: When the mother specifically is considered to be of an advanced age (35 years old or older), there is an increased likelihood that her child will develop autism. With many people becoming parents later today, this could be a reason why the ASD prevalence has risen in recent years.
- Maternal health risks: There are some maternal health issues that put a child more at risk of developing ASD. This includes diabetes, immune system disorders and obesity.
- Term: If a child was born very premature or has a very low weight at birth, studies have suggested that the child might be at higher risk of developing ASD. If oxygen was also depraved at birth for a period, that could be a factor.
- Exposure: Some studies have suggested that exposure to certain pesticides or air pollution very young could also contribute to autism.
Learn more about the possible causes of autism
How is Autism Treated?
No matter how autism develops, and no matter where along the autism spectrum your child falls, it is generally treated in the same way.
Today, applied behavioral analysis is widely considered the leading treatment for children with ASD. Also known as ABA therapy, it is a science- and evidence-based approach to learning and behavior that helps children with ASD build the social, communication and daily life skills with which they typically struggle.
ABA therapy is administered on a one-to-one basis, and also integrates parents, caregivers and other family members into the process. After initial evaluation and observation, an ABA therapist develops a personalized treatment plan that caters specifically to each child’s unique strengths and challenges.
Then, the ABA therapy is administered using positive reinforcement and repetition to teach skills.
Blue Gems ABA Administers Top-Notch ABA Therapy
There are many possible contributing factors to the development of autism, and family history is just one of them. There is still much research that is being done into the topic, all of which could help shed more light on the neurodevelopmental disorder.
At Blue Gems ABA, we have a team of experienced BCBAs who are dedicated to helping children with ASD live happy and fulfilling lives through ABA therapy.
To learn more, please contact us today.
617-297-7998
617-340-3371
info@bluegemsaba.com
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