1. Genetics & Heritability
1.1. Gene Mutations
1.1.1. Shank3 Deficiency
1.1.1.1. Disruption of Normal Delivery and Maintenance of Critical Receptors
1.1.1.1.1. Manifestation of Autistic Behaviors
1.1.2. Over Activity of MMP-9 Gene in Fragile-X causes Autistic Behaviors
1.1.2.1. Decrease MMP-9 Activity
1.1.2.1.1. Decrease in Autistic Behaviors
1.2. Genetic Predispositions
1.2.1. Sex Differences
1.2.1.1. Higher in Males
1.2.1.1.1. More Common for Mothers to Pass onto Sons
1.2.2. Race/Cultural Differences
1.3. Comorbidities
1.3.1. Anxiety/Stress
1.3.1.1. Increased Cortisol Levels in Lower Functioning Individuals with ASD
1.3.1.1.1. Relation Between Functioning & Cortisol Levels
1.3.2. Seizures
1.3.2.1. Increase in Mortality of Those with ASD
1.3.2.1.1. Therapeutic Control With Meds
1.3.3. Allergies
1.3.3.1. Allergic Disorders Produce ASD Behaviors
1.3.3.1.1. Treatment of Allergies will Decrease ASD Symptoms
1.3.4. Eczema
1.3.5. Respiratory Infections
1.3.6. Gastrointestinal Problems
1.3.6.1. Large Cause of Discomfort & Pain
1.3.7. Migraines/Severe Headaches
1.3.7.1. Increase in Self Injurious Behaviors
1.3.8. Immunological Abnormalities
1.3.8.1. Differences in Cells of Those with ASD
2. Environment
2.1. Toxin Exposure
2.1.1. Vaccinations
2.1.2. Prenatal Exposure Through Mothers
2.1.2.1. Pollution
2.1.2.2. Drug Use
2.1.2.3. Pesticides
2.2. Stress
2.2.1. Increase in Symptoms
2.2.1.1. Quantity
2.2.1.2. Symptom Severity
2.2.2. Decrease in Functioning
2.3. Lifestyle
2.3.1. Diet
2.3.1.1. Obesity
2.3.1.2. Lack of Nutrition
2.3.1.3. Processed & GMO Foods
2.3.2. Physical Activity
2.4. Medical Attention/Treatment
2.4.1. Inadequate Care
2.4.1.1. Symptoms of Comorbid Conditions are often Dismissed as Being from the Autism
2.4.1.1.1. Comorbidities of ASD are often Undiagnosed and Untreated
2.4.2. Early Diagnosis
2.4.2.1. Behavioral Interventions & Symptom Treatment at Younger Age
2.4.2.1.1. Decreased Aggressive Behaviors
2.4.2.1.2. Decreased Self Injurious Behaviors
2.4.2.1.3. Improved Quality of Life
2.5. Support Systems
2.5.1. Family
2.5.1.1. Early Detection of Symptoms
2.5.1.1.1. Improved Outcomes
2.5.1.2. Lack of Knowledge
2.5.1.2.1. Increased Anxiety
2.5.1.2.2. Decreased Treatments/Interventions
2.5.2. School/Educational
2.5.2.1. Behavioral Interventions
2.5.2.2. Modified Learning Experience
2.5.3. Societal
2.5.3.1. Increased Public Awareness
2.5.3.2. Increased Independence