What is Autism?

Autism has also been linked to administration of the MMR vaccine (against Measles, Mumps and Rubella). Extensive studies have disproved this myth. In 2009, the National Autism Society, released a statement supporting the claim that there is no link between MMR and ASD.

Yet another myth existed that a compound containing mercury called thiomersal, which is used as a preservative in some vaccines could be linked to ASD. Thiomersal has been extensively studied and no evidence of a link to ASD has been found. Furthermore, thiomersal was removed from vaccines in the US after 1999, yet the rates of ASD have continued to rise.

Types of ASD

Being a range of disorders autism includes a wide variety of disorders of varying severity. Some of the types of ASD include:

• Autistic disorder, sometimes known as "classic autism". This manifests as significant language delays, social and communication challenges, and unusual behaviors. There may be additional intellectual disability as well.
• Asperger syndrome – Symptoms are milder than classic autism. There are social challenges and unusual behaviors. There may be typically no language problems or intellectual disability.
• Pervasive developmental disorder – not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), also known as "atypical autism" – these individuals meet some of the criteria for autistic disorder or Asperger syndrome, but not all. Symptoms may be fewer and milder. There may be social and communication challenges.

Other disorders

Children with ASD may concomitantly also have other problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette's syndrome or other tic disorders, dyspraxia (developmental co-ordination disorder), epilepsies etc.

Prognosis or outcome of ASD

Those with mild to moderate impairments who have average or above-average intelligence often grow up to be independent adults with jobs, long-term relationships and children. However, those with below-average intelligence are likely to find it difficult to live independently as adults and may need additional care and assistance.