What Factors Raise Your Risk for Asperger s Syndrome Everyday Health MenuNewslettersSearch Asperger's What Factors Raise Your Risk for Asperger s Syndrome As with most autism spectrum disorders, researchers aren’t able to pinpoint one specific cause of Asperger’s. But, they do have some theories. By Julie Lynn MarksMedically Reviewed by Samuel Mackenzie, MD, PhDReviewed: September 30, 2022Medically ReviewedThere are likely many factors that contribute to Asperger’s syndrome.iStockWhile Asperger’s is no longer used as a clinical diagnosis — as of 2013, the American Psychiatric Association classifies Asperger’s as part of the autism spectrum disorders — the terminology is still commonly used. And as with most autism spectrum disorders, researchers aren’t able to pinpoint one specific cause of Asperger’s. But they do have some theories. Genes, brain changes, and environment likely all play a role in this disorder. Additionally, certain risk factors can increase the chance of developing Asperger’s. What Are the Possible Causes of Asperger s Syndrome Many studies have looked at possible causes for autism spectrum disorders like Asperger’s. Some have provided clues that help doctors identify potential triggers. Genes Genes appear to affect a person’s chances of developing Asperger’s. While no one specific gene has been found to cause Asperger’s, the disorder seems to run in families. (1) For example, younger siblings of a child with Asperger’s are at a greater risk of developing the syndrome than other kids. Studies on identical twins have shown that if one twin has an autism spectrum disorder, the other is likely to be affected between 36 and 95 percent of the time. (2) Additionally, certain genetic conditions, such as Fragile X syndrome and Rett syndrome, are linked to the development of Asperger’s. Fragile X syndrome is the most commonly known single-gene disorder and accounts for about 2 to 3 percent of all autism spectrum disorders. (3) Spontaneous gene mutations, or gene changes that happen for unknown reasons, may also influence a child’s risk of developing Asperger’s. Scientists continue to study how genes are related to Asperger’s. They hope to provide more answers to help better explain this complex connection. Brain Changes Imaging studies of people with autism spectrum disorders have shown differences in certain parts of the brain, especially in the areas known as the frontal and temporal lobes. Researchers are working to figure out whether these changes are due to gene abnormalities, damage during pregnancy or birth, an injury during the first few months of life, or a combination of several factors. (2) Environment Many experts believe environmental triggers may be a culprit for Asperger’s. While more research needs to be done, some have theorized that certain issues during pregnancy may increase a baby’s risk of developing an autism spectrum disorder. Some possibilities include:An expectant mother having a viral infection Birth complicationsIn utero exposure to chemicals, such as phthalates or pesticidesIn utero exposure to air pollutants It’s important to note that many children who are exposed to these risks never develop Asperger’s or another form of autism. (5) What Doesn t Cause Asperger s Debunked Myths You might have heard that vaccines are linked to autism, but this claim is unproven. On the contrary, extensive research has shown there is no link between vaccines and autism spectrum disorders. Years ago, one controversial study that caused concern over the association between vaccines and autism was withdrawn because of its poor design and questionable methods. (5) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that vaccines are safe and do not cause autism. (6) In fact, skipping vaccines can put children at risk of contracting and spreading other dangerous diseases, such as measles, mumps, or pertussis (whooping cough). Another common myth is that Asperger’s is caused by a poor home environment. Research shows the disorder is not due to a lack of love, emotional trauma, or neglect. Boys Are at Higher Risk for Asperger s Than Girls Boys are about 4 times more likely to develop an autism spectrum disorder, and according to some studies, up to 11 times more likely to develop Asperger’s syndrome compared with girls. (7) Researchers aren’t sure exactly why boys are at a higher risk. Studies have suggested links between male fetal testosterone levels and autism spectrum disorders. Some experts have also proposed theories that girls are simply underdiagnosed or that they are better protected genetically. (8) Other Risk Factors for Asperger s Syndrome Other risk factors for Asperger’s syndrome may include:Being born prematurely, especially before 26 weeksBeing born less than a year apart from an older siblingA family history of Asperger’s Being born to older parents Having a mental health disorder, such as depression or anxietyHaving another health condition, such as Tourette’s syndrome, epilepsy, or tuberous sclerosis (a condition that causes benign tumors to grow in the brain and other organs) The Likely Answer There s No Single Cause While the exact cause of Asperger’s isn’t known, many experts believe the disorder is probably triggered by a variety of factors. A combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental issues might work together to cause the syndrome. For example, certain genetic mutations may make a child more sensitive to chemicals or other environmental causes. Or genes might be the reason specific brain changes happen in someone with Asperger’s. (9) Experts are working to find out just how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together. Can You Lower Your Child s Risk of Asperger s There’s no way to totally prevent Asperger’s or other forms of autism, but some research suggests certain measures may provide a layer of protection. A 2014 study found that women who have pregnancies spaced two to five years apart have the lowest risk of having a child with an autism spectrum disorder. Kids conceived less than 12 months after their next-oldest sibling were 50 percent more likely to be diagnosed with autism compared with children conceived 24 months to 59 months after their next-oldest sibling. (10) As a precaution, you might also want to avoid harsh chemicals, risky medication, and air pollutants during pregnancy. Also, getting vaccinated against the German measles (rubella) before you get pregnant may reduce your risk of having a child with an autism spectrum disorder. If Asperger’s runs in your family, and you’re concerned about your child having the disorder, It might also be helpful to talk to a genetic counselor. This professional can help you better understand your risk of having a baby with Asperger’s. (2) NEWSLETTERS Sign up for our Healthy Living Newsletter SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking Asperger Syndrome. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center.Autism Spectrum Disorder Fact Sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. July 25, 2022.Fragile X Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Similarities and Differences. National Fragile X Foundation. March 25, 2019.Deleted, September 18, 2022Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mayo Clinic. January 6, 2018.Autism and Vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. December 1, 2021.Baron-Cohen S, Lombardo MV, Auyeung B, et al. Why Are Autism Spectrum Conditions More Prevalent in Males? PLoS Biology. June 14, 2011.Autistic Women and Girls. National Autistic Society.Causes. Autism Society. July 15, 2015.Cheslack-Postava K, Suominen A, Jokiranta E, et al. Increased Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorders at Short and Long Interpregnancy Intervals in Finland. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. October 2014. Additional ResourcesWhat Happened to Asperger’s Syndrome? The Conversation. March 8, 2018.​​Fragile X Syndrome. MedlinePlus. April 1, 2020.About Rett Syndrome. International Rett Syndrome Foundation.Common Autism Myths, Debunked. Developmental Pediatrics. March 25, 2021.Brains of People With Autism May Be Enlarged Throughout Life. SpectrumNews.org. 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