The incidence of autism has increased almost sixty-fold since the late 1970s, with the most dramatic increase
occurring over the past decade. There is no cure for autism. As with many disorders, genetic predisposition is
thought to have an influence on the development of autism.
In 2008, three studies in The American Journal of
Human Genetics suggested that a specific gene increases the risk of autism. Genetics play a role in the
majority of psychiatric disorders, but many experts believe that specific triggers initiate the onset.
Research indicates that there are a number of factors that may come together to cause autism. This body of
information has implicated the following as contributory in the development of autism:
- Environmental factors such as use of organic pesticides
- Cell phones and other wireless technology emit electromagnetic radiation which cause metals to be
trapped in brain cells, thereby accelerating the onset of autism
- Inability to clear heavy metals
- Early insult to immune system via contaminated vaccines, and general environmental exposures
to toxicity such as mercury
- Increased vulnerability to oxidative stress
Cell Phones and Autism
A 2007 study suggested that electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from cell phones, cell towers, Wi-Fi devices and
other similar wireless technologies are an accelerating factor in autism. According to this theory, the signals
emitted by the routers cause metals to be trapped in brain cells, thereby hastening the onset of autism.
The study, which involved over five years of research on children with autism and membrane sensitivity disorders,
determined that EMR negatively affects cell membranes, and allows heavy metal toxins to build up in the body.
It was suggested that autism rates have increased at a rate similar to that of wireless devices, such as cell
phones. EMR may cause an early onset of autistics symptoms by trapping heavy metals inside of nerve cells, thus
increasing heavy metal toxicity and hindering elimination of toxins.
Environmental Exposures to Toxins
Some scientists have suggested that there is evidence that the rise in autism is linked to organic pesticides,
which increased concurrently during in the same period as autism.
In a paper presented at the University of Sunderland in the U.K., researchers noted that Gulf War veterans and
sheep dip farmers exposed to particularly high levels of organic pesticides (especially organophosphates)
shared some of the neurobiological symptoms with autism. They concluded that "This suggested a possible link
between organic pesticides and the symptoms exhibited by these syndromes."
Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Autism
There are numerous complementary and alternative therapies that help to address the symptoms of autism.
The following
represents clinical findings with regard to some of the more helpful methods.
