What causes autism? No single cause has been identified, but family and twin studies show genetics plays a part. Large studies have found no causal link between autism and vaccines, or between autism and paracetamol in pregnancy.
This guide explains what is known, what is not, and where to get support in Australia. For the basics, start with what autism is.
What causes autism is still being studied, and no single cause has been identified.
Scientists are still studying how autism relates to brain development, and there is no simple answer yet.
The Autism Association of Australia says the chance of having another autistic child is estimated to be around 1 in 5, and one large study found 77% concordance in identical twins (Autism Association of Australia).
TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.
Make a referral →What causes autism? Parents often wonder whether something in pregnancy, birth or childhood was responsible. Here is what the evidence says on common questions.
Read more in our guide on whether vaccines can cause autism.
Because no single cause of autism has been identified, there is no proven way to avoid it, and no one should be blamed.
If you wonder whether you or your child may be autistic, the first step is a conversation with your GP.
Our guide to the symptoms of autism explains what families often notice, and the autism statistics for Australia show how common autism is.
If you meet the NDIS access requirements, the NDIS may fund supports for daily life. Read about autism funding under the NDIS for what to prepare.
Still wondering what causes autism? Questions about your own family are best discussed with someone who knows you or your child. Call 000 in an emergency.
TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.
Make a referral →Understanding the causes is only one part of the picture; the daily support that suits you or your child matters too. TQN Care supports autistic people at home and in the community with personal care, community access and respite. See our full range of TQN Care NDIS services and tell us what you need.
No single cause has been identified. Family and twin studies show genetics plays a part, and large studies have found no causal link with vaccines or paracetamol in pregnancy.
Autism is a developmental difference, and genetics plays a part. Some children are recognised in early childhood, while others are recognised in the school years or as adults. Your GP can talk through any questions about your own situation.
Autism is not caught from another person, and large studies have found no causal link with vaccines. Genetics plays a part. The Autism Association of Australia estimates the chance of another autistic child in a family is around 1 in 5.
There is no proven way to prevent autism. Large studies have found no causal link between vaccines and autism, or paracetamol in pregnancy and autism, so avoiding these will not prevent it. Be wary of products that claim to prevent autism, and talk to your GP about any concerns.