Improving autism perinatal risk factors: A systematic review
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Current understanding of the etiology of autism is based on the interaction of multiple genes with each other and with environmental factors, leading to a neurodevelopmental process that results in the expression of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the child. This suggests that it might be possible to strengthen resilience to environmental stressors during the perinatal period to improve outcomes and possibly prevent the development of ASD.
METHODS: We searched the MEDLINE database for multiple perinatal factors associated with the development of ASD published between January 1, 2005 and July 1, 2018. The search terms used were "autism" crossed with either "perinatal," "prenatal," "gestational," or "pregnancy," and crossed again with each perinatal risk factor highlighted in this review including topics on parental health, infections, medications, and environmental stressors. We then searched interventions that may improve neurodevelopmental outcome before and during pregnancy, including supplements, breastfeeding, and postpartum stress reduction. We identified recent or unique metanalyses and systematic reviews of the identified focus and on randomized controlled trials and summarized these using the most recent and comprehensive reviews.
RESULTS: Folate, omega-3, vitamin D3, environmental toxin avoidance, correcting deficiencies, immune boosting, and prolonged breast feeding are all reported to be linked to the possible reduction of adverse pregnancy outcomes…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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