Although there are many theories, no one knows the definitive answer to this question.

Research shows that autism can be caused by a variety of conditions which affect brain development, which may occur before, during or after birth.

While the cause or combination of causes of autism is not fully understood, some research suggests a biological problem affecting those parts of the brain that process language and information coming in from the senses. Other research findings suggest that there may be an imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain. Genetic factors may sometimes be involved in certain families.In reality what we know is that autism may develop from a combination of several "causes".

There is no suggestion that psychological or emotional factors in the environment of the child cause autism.

Autism is present at birth or appears within the first three years of life. However, challenges in diagnosis may mean that it is not detected until much later in life.

NO. Children become adults with autism. There is currently no documented cure for autism. Individuals with autism respond very well to structured intervention, especially when children receive early intervention to maximise their skills.

NO. There has been an increase in clarity of the diagnostic criteria, which means that more individuals are being appropriately diagnosed. This has been paralleled by an increase in awareness and knowledge among diagnosticians and other professionals. This means that fewer people go undiagnosed than in the past.

NO. Autism is a life-long disability. Structured intervention and training will teach skills, but not cure. There is a wide body of research to support the knowledge that young children with autism experience significant improvements when intervention is started at the earliest possible age.

The learning curve for the preschooler with autism is different from his/her peers. Children with autism often require intensive instruction and practice of the core missing skills in autism in the areas of social interaction, communication, thinking, and self help & independence.

Asperger's Syndrome is a form of autism, a condition that affects the way a person communicates and relates to others. A number of traits of autism are common to Asperger's Syndrome including: difficulties in communicating, social relationships, and a lack of social imagination and creative play.

However, people with Asperger's Syndrome usually have fewer problems with language than those with autism, often speaking fluently, though their words can sometimes sound formal or ‘unusual’ to the listener. People with Asperger's Syndrome do not usually have the accompanying learning disabilities associated with autism; in fact, people with Asperger's Syndrome are often of average or above average intelligence.

Many children with Asperger's Syndrome enter mainstream school. With the right support and encouragement, they are able to make good progress and go on to further education and employment options.

Autism is found all over the world in families of every racial, ethnic and social background. Family income, lifestyle and educational levels do not affect the prevalence of autism.

In Singapore, ARC(S) estimates there are approximately 24,000 people with autism, 5472 aged between 2-19 yrs (based on a population of 4 million), with 216 new diagnoses per year.

There have been no accurate studies made in Singapore to establish exact prevalence rates here, but it is likely that, based on prevalence rates worldwide, the figure will be in the region of 60 per 10.000 of the total population.

As it is a spectrum disorder, prevalence figures depend on the criteria used. If one counts only those with classical Kanner syndrome the figure would be much lower.

If you have a child with autism, it is common to worry whether your next child will also have the disorder. Research findings suggest that there is evidence of a hereditary factor in some families, although how the pattern of inheritance works is not clear.

Parents are advised to talk to a genetic counsellor or health professional if they are worried or would like additional expert information.

Outcome studies of adults with autism show that most need some form of support to varying degree throughout their lives. The level of independence and quality of life the person with autism achieves will depend on availability of support services.

Some people with high functioning autism or Asperger's Syndrome have gone on to lead reasonably independent and productive lives. Several of them have gone on to tell their stories in autobiographies such as Temple Grandin and Donna Williams.