THE RECENT INCREASE IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS AND THE MAJOR CONTRIBUTORS TO THE INCREASE. Author name: Nta Opeoluwa Boco Institution: Medical University of the Americas, Nevis, West Indies Author information: 438B Oluwadamilola Fashade street Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria Telephone number: +2349051134727 Email address: nta.boco@yahoo.com Mentor: Dr. Rajiv Pathak HYPOTHESIS: The increase in the diagnosed cases of Autism over the last few decades has been alarming. What are the most important causes for this alarming rise? How can these causes help in finding a cure for autism? Abstract word count: 227 ABSTRACT PAGE Hypothesis: The increase in the diagnosed cases of Autism over the last few decades has been alarming. What are the major contributors …show more content…
Articles that focused on possible causes of autism and their effect on the number of diagnosed cases over the last few decades were selected. Results: Some of the causes of the increase in diagnosed cases of autism include changes in diagnostic criteria, extensive research, increase in the use of infant feeding formula, pre/peri/post-natal injuries and exposure to infections. Some of these causes play larger roles than others. Conclusion: Although various factors have contributed to the increase in autism in the last few decades, the major contributing factors are extensive research which has allowed for a better understanding and diagnosing of Autism and the changes in diagnostic criteria of Autism Keywords: Autism, incidence of autism, prevalence of autism, Diagnostic Statistical Manual 4/5, Autism diagnostic criteria, environmental toxins and autism, autism research. Ultramini Abstract: There has been an alarming increase in Autism over the last few years. There are many causes for this increase the most important ones being changes in diagnostic criteria of Autism and research that has led to a better understanding of Autism. …show more content…
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an amalgam of neurodevelopment disorders that are manifested as mild to severe deficiencies in social and communication interactions coupled with limited, repetitive and stereotypical behavioral patterns (American Psychiatric Association, 2012). This spectrum of disorders may occur independently or jointly in a patient. ASD being a behavior disorder requires a complex and comprehensive behavioral evaluation sometimes making it difficult to accurately