Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental
disorders typically manifesting in early childhood. According to the ICD-11 ASD
diagnosis relies on a dyad of symptoms: Deficits in social interaction and
repetitive behavioral patterns. The significant increase in ASD diagnoses in
children observed in recent years suggests the need to deepen our understanding
of the disorder's etiology to implement appropriate preventive measures. Brief
description of the state of knowledge: While the disorder is believed to have both
genetic and environmental origins, research on the influence of individual factors
remains inconclusive. Results: The reviewed studies show an association between
factors such as advanced parental age, gestational diabetes, heavy metals
exposure, imbalance of the microbiome, and autism spectrum disorders. Because
of the varying results in existing research, it is necessary to further investigate
how low levels of vitamin D in expectant mothers impact their offspring.
Researchers haven’t identified a link between the MMR vaccine and ASD.
Keywords: Autism, environment, diabetes, vitamin D, dysbiosis