Study Finds Genetics, Not Maternal Health, Drive Autism Risk

A comprehensive analysis of over 1.1 million pregnancies concludes that maternal health conditions during pregnancy do not cause autism, emphasizing genetic and environmental factors instead.

• Researchers analyzed medical records from over 1.1 million pregnancies in Denmark to explore potential links between maternal health and autism risk.
• The study found no convincing evidence that maternal health conditions, such as infections or depression, during pregnancy cause autism in children.
• Genetic factors and environmental influences, such as pollution and healthcare access, were identified as the primary contributors to autism risk.
• The only maternal diagnoses statistically associated with autism involved fetal complications, which researchers suggest may be early indicators rather than causes of autism.
• The findings aim to alleviate guilt among mothers and shift focus toward early diagnosis and support for children with autism.

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