Autism and Genetics: Facts (Link in Article archive)

Alright here I am with another of my educational posts'.. "Is Autism Genetic?"

Vidya is worried that her unborn child might be autistic. A very possible scenario, I knew this would come up when they disclosed Vidya's pregnancy. 1 in every 150 children has autism. The parents who already have an autistic child are at a higher risk of having another autistic child, so the question is will Vidya's child be autistic?

One main thing is that Antara is Aditya and Anu's daughter so the chance of Vidya's child being autistic is not that high but it's still there. But since that question has entered Vidya's mind what will be her decision? She was already thinking about aborting the child but now that there is the possibility of the child being autistic will she be more firm in her decision to abort the child? What will be Aditya's take on this? Will he consent to Vidya's decision of aborting the child?

I don't want Vidya to abort the child even if the child is autistic; that is no reason for abortion. I hope Aditya or Dr. Vikram talks some sense into Vidya if she decides to go for abortion.

There is also the fact that Vidya might blame this all on Antara'.. I already see how distressed and uncomfortable she is around Antara just because she is autistic. I seriously wasn't expecting such behavior from Vidya'.

Facts on Genetic theory:

One of the theories suggests that autism is caused by genetic; the researchers are looking into certain irregular pieces of genetic codes that autistic children may have inherited.

Siblings of autistic people are more likely to be autistic, and twins are extremely likely to share autistic traits. This points out to the fact that autism does have a genetic component. But still this does not prove that there is one gene code responsible or that genetics are the cause of autism. Environmental factors are also being said to be the cause of autism.

Genetic research findings:

• Autism has a genetic component.
• If autism runs in your family, you have an increased risk of having a child with autism.
• If you already have one child with autism, you have an increased risk of having another child with autism.
• The genes associated with autism are complex -- and a genetic inclination toward autism may require an environmental "trigger" to cause symptoms.

I think the whole problem lies in the fact that there still hasn't been any breakthrough in finding the cause of Autism, there are only just theories which are yet to be proven. I was reading an article the other day about autism, a new theory about Vitamin D deficiency being the cause of autism. There are just too many theories on the cause of autism but not a single one has fully been proven.

I am so glad the myths about Autism were cleared in the show; it really is very great how the show is progressing, showing the difference between the myths and facts. Explaining the condition in such a simple way and portraying everything realistically. That's what I like about this show, no high drama and unnecessary twists and turns, costumes and looks are in character, and no negative characters (well.... except for that Arti and that Billu bully always tormenting my sweets Antara!)

Angel***

More helpful info. thank a ton angel