Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been increasingly diagnosed worldwide over recent decades, leading many to wonder if the rise is due to actual growth in autism cases or other factors. One question that arises is whether autism is growing because risks associated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications or products were hidden from families, potentially contributing to more children developing autism. To explore this, it’s important to understand what autism is, what causes it, how diagnoses have changed, and the role of environmental factors, including medications.
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. It varies widely in severity and presentation, with some individuals requiring significant support and others living independently with unique strengths. Autism is typically identified in early childhood but can be diagnosed later. The prevalence of autism has risen sharply in recent years, with estimates suggesting about 1 in 127 people worldwide have autism, and in the U.S., about 1 in 31 children born in 2014 were diagnosed with ASD. This increase is often attributed more to improved awareness, broader diagnostic criteria, and better screening rather than a true surge in the number of people with autism.
Scientific research indicates that autism arises from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetics play a major role, with many genes involved in brain development and function contributing to autism risk. Environmental factors linked to autism include advanced parental age, maternal health conditions like diabetes during pregnancy, prenatal exposure to air pollution or heavy metals, premature birth, and complications during birth. Some medications taken during pregnancy, such as valproate and carbamazepine (used for seizures), have been associated with a higher risk of autism in children. However, these are prescription drugs, not OTC products.
The idea that OTC medication risks were hidden from families and thus contributed to rising autism rates is not supported by current scientific evidence. There is no credible research showing that common OTC medications or supplements cause autism or that their risks were deliberately concealed. Most OTC products are regulated for safety, and while some can have side effects, none have been linked to autism development. The increase in autism diagnoses is better explained by changes in diagnostic practices, increased awareness among parents and healthcare providers, and recognition of autism’s broad spectrum.
It is important to distinguish between correlation and causation. Just because a child with autism was exposed to certain environmental factors or medications does not mean those caused autism. Autism’s origins are multifactorial and complex
