Autism is a developmental disorder that affects communication and social interaction. The exact cause of autism is unknown, but researchers have found that genetics and environmental factors both play a role in its development.

Recently, studies have shown that children are four times more likely to develop autism if their mothers have certain risk factors. In this article, we will explore these risk factors and their impact on the development of autism in children.

Risk Factor #1: Age

Research has found that women who have children later in life have a higher risk of giving birth to a child with autism. This is particularly true for women over the age of 30.

Studies have shown that women who give birth at age 35 or older are 1.5 times more likely to have a child with autism, and women who give birth at age 40 or older are 2.2 times more likely to have a child with autism than women who give birth in their 20s.

Risk Factor #2: Obesity

According to a study published in the journal Pediatrics, mothers who are obese during pregnancy are 67% more likely to have a child with autism than mothers who are not obese.

The study found that the risk was highest for children who were severely obese at birth. The reason for this association is not yet clear, but it is thought that inflammation caused by obesity may affect fetal brain development.

Risk Factor #3: Diabetes

Mothers who have gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, are also at an increased risk of having a child with autism.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that women with gestational diabetes had a 63% increased risk of having a child with autism, compared to women who did not have gestational diabetes.

Risk Factor #4: Stress

Stress during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of autism in children. A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that mothers who experienced high levels of stress during pregnancy were more likely to have a child with autism.

The study also found that the risk increased with the severity and duration of the stress. It is thought that stress hormones may affect fetal brain development and lead to the development of autism.

Conclusion

Autism is a complex disorder that is influenced by many different factors, including genetics and the environment.

Recent studies have shown that mothers who have certain risk factors, such as age, obesity, diabetes, and stress, are more likely to have a child with autism. By understanding these risk factors, we can better understand the causes of autism and work towards prevention and early intervention for children who are at risk.