What Really Causes Autism? What Families Need to Know
Understanding Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 children in the U.S. (CDC, 2023). Families often ask: Why did this happen? The truth is that autism has no single cause. Instead, it develops from a combination of genetics and environment.
The Evidence on Causes
Genetics matter most: Twin studies show autism is highly heritable (70–80%). Modern genetic studies have identified over 100 genes strongly linked to autism (NOLM,2023).
Environmental influences: Certain factors may modestly increase risk, including advanced parental age, maternal infection during pregnancy, or prenatal exposure to medications like valproate (NLOM, 2022).
Protective factors: Maternal folic acid supplementation has been linked to lower autism risk (Hoxha et al., 2021.
What does not cause autism: Vaccines have been studied in over a dozen large-scale analyses and found to have no association with autism Modabbernia et al., 2017).
Recognizing the Signs of Autism
Every child develops at their own pace, but autism often shows up in early childhood—usually before age 3. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, common signs include:
Social differences
Limited eye contact
Trouble engaging in back-and-forth conversation
Preferring to play alone rather than with others
Communication challenges
Delayed speech or language development
Repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
Difficulty understanding tone of voice or facial expressions
Repetitive behaviors & restricted interests
Hand flapping, rocking, or spinning
Strong attachment to routines
Intense focus on specific topics or objects
Sensory sensitivities
Strong reactions to sounds, textures, lights, or smells
Seeking sensory input (e.g., spinning, deep pressure)
Early identification is powerful: the sooner a child is screened, the sooner families can access therapies that support development.
How ABA Helps Children With Autism
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the gold-standard therapy for autism, supported by decades of research (NAC, 2015 Review). Here’s how it helps:
Communication: Children can learn to express wants and needs, whether through speech, sign language, or augmentative devices.
Daily living skills: From brushing teeth to getting dressed, ABA teaches step-by-step independence.
Social skills: ABA builds turn-taking, sharing, and interacting with peers in natural settings.
Behavioral support: Therapists work to reduce challenging behaviors (like self-injury or aggression) by teaching alternative coping strategies.
School readiness: ABA prepares children to transition into classroom settings with the skills needed for learning.
Most importantly, ABA is highly individualized. No two programs look the same—plans are built around a child’s unique strengths and goals.
Headstart Health: Support Without the Waitlist
At Headstart Health, we connect families to trusted providers so they can access therapy quickly—no waitlists, no standardized care.
Personalized: Every family is matched with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who creates a program tailored to their child.
Accessible: In-home therapy means your child learns in a natural, supportive environment.
Family-focused: We coach parents and caregivers so progress continues beyond therapy sessions.
Explore our Provider Network to find a BCBA near you today.
In summary: Autism is influenced by genetics and environment, not vaccines. Signs often appear early in life, and ABA is the most effective, evidence-based therapy available. At Headstart Health, we’re here to ensure families get the care they need—quickly and compassionately.
