Autism is a developmental disability resulting from differences in the human brain. Autistic children struggle with learning and development. They can also show repetitive behaviors when interacting with their family members or others. For many years, people lacked awareness of this condition and got to know more about it after a doctor’s diagnosis. However, recent years have recorded a significantly increasing number of autistic children. Why is autism increasing rapidly? Today, we will review some crucial factors contributing to this important concern.
The Top Factors Behind an Increasing Number of Autism Cases
If we review the stats of various health organizations, we can find a rapid increase in autistic people in recent years. For a thorough understanding, let’s dig deeper to know the reasons behind it.
Broadened Diagnostic Criteria
Unlike years ago, modern-day health organizations have broadened the criteria for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With more techniques and awareness, healthcare experts can better diagnose conditions like autism in growing children. Clinicians in the U.S. rely on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to diagnose developmental conditions. With every new edition, the ongoing research adds more information to the manual for improved diagnostic methods.
Increased Screening Practices
Over the years, healthcare organizations have paid more attention to screening procedures. Modern healthcare facilities screen children for autism diagnosis at an early age for effective treatment. Since such practices were missing in the past, many children with autism remain undiagnosed for longer periods. Such scenarios lead to a smaller number of overall reported cases. Doctors nowadays recommend all children be screened for ASD.
Modern Diagnostic Tools and Techniques
The advancements in the healthcare industry have changed the scope of disease diagnosis in major countries. With modern tools and techniques, healthcare experts can better analyze and diagnose the patient’s condition accurately. So is the case with autistic people. Modern techniques have significantly contributed to informed diagnosis and treatment at a young age.
Environmental Changes
Environmental factors play a crucial role in developing diseases in people worldwide. In the case of autism, exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants can stimulate ASD in children. Although such cases are more likely to occur in environmentally unstable regions, global environmental changes could be one of the factors behind the increasing number of autistic people.
Genetic Factors
Autism can have genetic influences. Some patients may have genetic problems leading to autistic conditions. Typically, genetics combined with environmental factors can lead to ASD in children. However, a healthcare expert can better advise regarding the factors leading to the condition.
Lifestyle Changes
With technological tools taking over, the lifestyle of people worldwide has significantly changed. People are more likely to eat unhealthy foods and have unhealthy routines. Such factors can also contribute to an increased number of autism cases.
The above factors highlight the possible reasons behind the increasing number of autism cases. If you recently had a baby, we recommend going for autism screening once they grow up and start interacting with their surroundings.