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Autism/Is Autism Hereditary?

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Expert: - 4/7/2011


Question
Hello,

I am not sure if there is an answer to this questions, so I hope I am not wasting your time.

My partner and I are talking about starting a family in the near future, whilst there is no history of autism on my side of the family, my partners sister has 2 autistic children, and he is concerned that he could potentially carry a 'gene' that would increase the risk of having children with autism.

I was just wondering if there is any research that suggests there is a greater chance of having an autistic child based on family history.

Many Thanks

K

Answer
Hi Kylie

I don't think that question has been answered as of yet. But my experience says that there is a higher risk. My niece just had a baby and we have all been watching him closely to see what happens. So far so good.

But you may want to consult with a geneticist.  

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Valerie Herskowitz

Expertise

I am an autism expert and speech pathologist (for over 30 years). I am also the parent of a child with autism. I can answer any question on autism dealing with communication, education, behavior and diet. I cannot answer questions that are medical in nature or are dealing with medications.

Experience

I have run a therapy center for individuals with autism since 1981. I lecture all over the country. I also teach classes on autism on line.

Organizations
Vice President of Communications Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Member American Speech and Hearing Association, MembernAutism Society of America, President of the National Autism Registry, Vice President of the Association for Developmentally Disabled Adults and Adolescents.

Publications
Autism Society of America's national publication (September 2008). Advance Magazine, South Florida Parenting, Spectrum Magazine, I am the author of: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology (available:www.valerieherskowitz.com)

Education/Credentials
I have a masters degree in speech pathology

Awards and Honors
I won a Stevie Award in 2004: Lifetime Achievement Award for my work with individuals with autism. My therapy center won, Judge's Choice Award Best Center in South Florida by South Florida Parenting magazine 2005.

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