what causes autism in babies

The exact cause of autism is not known, but research suggests that it develops from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Several different genes appear to be involved in autism spectrum disorder, and changes in certain genes increase the risk that a child will develop autism. However, its important to note that not everyone with these gene changes will develop autism, and some gene changes associated with autism can also be found in people who dont have the disorder. Environmental factors that may play a role in triggering autism spectrum disorder include viral infections, medications or complications during pregnancy, and air pollutants. However, these factors alone are unlikely to cause autism, and they appear to increase a childs risk for developing autism when combined with genetic factors. Vaccines do not cause autism.