Doesn't it seem there is an increase in things like autism, Alzheimer's?

Question

and other brain related problems? If so, any ideas of what is causing this? Is it something we are exposed to or something in our diets?

Answer 1

Nelson is right about Alzheimer's. That might or might not account for the increase.

As far as autism, we know the rate of DIAGNOSIS has increased but we are not certain if the actual condition is much more common. My niece & nephew would likely have just been diagnosed as "retarded" or "brain damaged" 30 or 40 years ago.

I heard one of the ladies on "The View" today quote that the rate of austims used to be 1 out of 10,000. Those stats from many years ago which included only classic autism. Even then, many with autism were just diagnosed "retarded" or someother general label. Most experts agree that the actual incidence rate of classic autism 30 years ago was more like 1 out of 1,000.

The current stats (1 out of 166) include Asperger's & other high-functioning forms of autism which were never diagnosed as autistic until the late 80s. The now compose about 70% of those with autism. Classic, or "Kanner's" autism occurs at about a rate of 1 out of 500.

So an accurate comparison would the old incidence rate of 1 out of 1,000 to the new rate of 1 out of 500. That means the rates have doubled, but that is a far cry from the rate increasing 60 times over. (and far from an "epidemic")

Answer 2

I don't think it's a dietary thing that's causing Autism or Alzheimer's. They are getting closer to finding a possible cause for Autism, but so far it's been all guesses. I have to believe that it's something that we're exposed to, but like the "experts", it's just a guess.
I have an 8 yr. old grandson who's Autistic, so I'd love to know too!!

Answer 3

People are living longer--this is one of the reasons why Alzheimers is increasing.