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Educators say research points to genetic links and note Asperger's is now included under autism spectrum disorder
Summary
Harford County specialists described current research linking autism to genetics, said more adults are being diagnosed as awareness grows, and explained that older diagnoses such as Asperger's are now subsumed under autism spectrum disorder.
Sarah Sinclair summarized the research consensus she cited: “The best research that I've seen, is that, the best known cause is a genetic link.” She said autism often runs in families and that some syndromes have a strong link to autism.
Both guests noted a recent trend where adults receive diagnoses after their children are diagnosed and increased awareness reveals lifelong patterns. They also clarified diagnostic terminology: what used to be called Asperger's is now part of autism spectrum disorder under current diagnostic manuals, and people who previously had an Asperger's label are now considered on the autism spectrum.
The program framed these points as context for why families and clinicians observe traits across generations and why some adults are seeking evaluation later in life.
