by Paul Fassa

(Health Secrets) Autism is a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders that typically manifests before a child reaches the age of four years. Autism disrupts the communication system of the child and this disruption manifests in a variety of ways including behavior problems, hyperactivity, destructiveness, self-harm, aggression, and sleep and eating disorders. The causes of autism are not well understood, however oxidative stress and antioxidant status have been shown to be important factors. Clearly the cost of autism is on the rise.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition (DSM-5) merged each distinct autism subtype into one simplified diagnosis, Autism Spectrum Disorder. Read More.