Autism Is More Common Than Thought

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Wednesday December 12 8:57 PM ET

Researchers: Autism Is More Common Than

Thought

LONDON (Reuters) - Autism is more common than previously thought and

affects up to six in every 1,000 children inBritain, researchers said in

a report on Thursday.

The report by the Medical Research Council (MRC) found no evidence

linking autism to the triple measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)

vaccination.

Concern that the MMR jab could trigger autism has led to some parents

refusing to have their children vaccinated. But the MRC's report, which

was commissioned by the Department of Health, supports previous research

which found no association between MMR and autism.

A range of factors probably cause autism, the report said, with the

strongest evidence pointing to a major genetic component.

It suggested several genes interact to create susceptibility to the

condition. The interplay between genetic and environmental factors could

also play a key role.

Autism is a set of neurodevelopmental problems in which the way a

person communicates and interacts with other people is impaired.

Restrictive or repetitive behaviors are characteristic of the

condition.

The report said an apparent rise in the number of cases of the

disorder is likely to have resulted from changed ideas about what an

autism disorder is, as well as increased awareness of the condition.

It called for more research into possible environmental risk factors

such as diet, drugs, toxins and infections.

The MRC promotes public understanding of research into biomedical

sciences and helps ensure there are enough researchers into health

issues.

Source:

http://dailynews.yahoo.com/h/nm/20011212/sc/health_britain_autism_dc_1.html