Tag Archives: birth defect

According to researchers, twins have a greater risk of developing autism. Two studies, one in the United States and one in the United Kingdom, suggest that environmental factors may play a role. Prior studies showed that genetics play an important part in autism development, but the two recent studies say experiences in the womb are also involved. A spokesperson for the National Autistic Society said the results of the studies add to prior findings suggesting exposures in the womb contribute to autism development. The spokesperson added, however, that researchers have not found any specific prenatal exposures as contributory. The Two Autism Studies and Environmental Factors In one study, a Columbia University geneticist looked at families in which at least two siblings had autism. The researcher found that a significant number of identical and fraternal twins had autism. His research found, more specifically: Of the 166 sibling pairs identified with autism,…
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Autism is a brain disorder often resulting in a lifetime of impaired thinking and social functioning. It blocks a child’s ability to communicate and express emotion. It is a birth defect presenting a life-long challenge to the child and parents. Although there is no cure for autism, improvement can occur through therapy. Doctors agree that the earlier you can diagnose autism, the better. Symptoms of Autism The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development warns to have your child checked for autism if he or she displays any of the following: Does not say single words by 16 months Does not gesture with the hands or babble by 12 months Does not say two-word phrases on their own by 24 months Has a loss of language or social skills at any age Some children with autism can still function at a relatively high-level. Other children display more serious impairments…
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