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What Are the Three Main Causes of Autism? Here’s What Experts Say

Smiling child with curly hair on a swing, supported by an adult in a therapy room. The atmosphere is joyful and supportive.
  • What are the three main causes of autism? 1) Genetics, 2) certain environmental factors, and 3) early brain development.

  • No single factor guarantees autism; it’s often a mix.

  • Knowing these causes helps guide early intervention and support.

Autism doesn’t have a single cause. So, what are the three main causes of autism? According to worldwide research, autism is driven by a combination of genetics, environmental factors, and brain development differences.

1. Genetics: The Strongest Influence

Most scientists agree that the biggest factor in what are the three main causes of autism is genetics. Over 800 genes have been linked to autism, showing this condition runs in families. For example, if a family has one child with autism, the chance of a sibling having it rises, and different gene combinations can influence risk and symptoms.

2. Environmental Factors

The second major answer to what are the three main causes of autism? Exposure to certain environmental factors before or during pregnancy. These include advanced parental age, certain infections or illnesses during pregnancy, air pollution, and exposure to toxins like pesticides or heavy metals. Scientists note that these factors alone don’t cause autism but can increase risk, especially when combined with specific genetic backgrounds.

3. Early Brain Development

The third main cause involves early brain development. Studies show that some children with autism have different patterns of brain growth and connectivity, starting just weeks after conception. Abnormal brain overgrowth or disrupted circuits during infancy have been closely associated with the emergence of autism symptoms.

At Blue Bell ABA, many families are relieved to learn that research shows vaccines are not among the three main causes of autism. Instead, parents often share how knowing about genetics and early development helped connect them with the right support early. Over 80% of researchers agree on the combined influence of these three key factors.

Questions about the causes of autism or how to get started with ABA therapy? Call Blue Bell ABA today and ask about our “Root Cause Roadmap”—a custom session to help your family understand, plan, and grow with expert support in Georgia, North Carolina, and Ohio!

 

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