A prevalent misconception about autism asserts that this developmental disorder that impairs social and behavioral complications is solely due to genetics. Individuals’ surrounding environment plays a far-reaching role in causing autism, which cannot be neglected during research studies. Since DNA is readily passed down generations, one can easily hypothesize that autism will be genetic; however mutations in DNA, which are unpredictable, can cause this disorder out of the blue.

Nevertheless, individuals with specific medical conditions such as fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome, and untreated phenylketonuria are more prone to obtaining this medical illness than an average, healthy person. In countless cases, autism has been caused by mutations, otherwise known as duplications or deletions of genes, which are unique sequences of nucleotides-the building blocks of DNA.

These types of mutations are labeled as CNVs (copy number variants), which can be detected using a highly complex machine for analyzing DNA. This process today still remains quite arduous since it requires scientists to be capable of differentiating between acceptable and abnormal mutations in the sequences. The genes are almost always located in the synapses, or junctions between nerve cells, which are responsible for carrying signals back and forth from the central nervous system. The gene mutations’ location serves to justify the several symptoms of autism including socializing issues, limited eye contact, lingual struggles, inability to express themselves clearly, and a harsher degree of introvertedness, since most issues occur in genes that code for comprehensive brain development.

Autism, although not the most prevalent illness, affects a considerable number of individuals residing in the United States, roughly about one in every 110 children. This statistic highlights the dire necessity for raising awareness for autism, especially since there exists a plethora of false notions or misunderstood aspects of the disorder that may be detrimental to a patient’s self-consciousness or confidence.

By genuinely encouraging average citizens to take an interest in comprehending the triggers of autism, rather than simply wearing the color blue for April Autism Awareness month or passing on a curt, shallow remark about autism, every individual has an obligation to guide his or her community in truly peaking passion for helping autistic children and adults. Taking such action can later function to inspire future generations to seek cures and treatments for autism and overall cultivate a humane world.


<Jenny Chang Orange Lutheran High School 11th Grade>