UCC Probes Link Between Autism And C-Sections

A new study has claimed that babies born by Caesarean section could be more likely to develop autism.

The research, conducted by Ireland's University College Cork, found that the procedure appears to increase the chances of the condition by almost a quarter. It is not clear why this is the case, but researchers have added that women should not be concerned at the findings as the risk of autism remains small.

For the study, experts looked at a number of studies linking Caesareans to autism, and found that, on average, the risk is increased by 23%.

Professor Louise Kenny, one of the authors of the report, is quoted as saying: "Parents should be reassured that the overall risk of a child developing ASD Autism Spectrum Disorder is very small and that when medically indicated it can be lifesaving."

However, they added that more research needs to be carried out regarding any possible links.

Lead author Eileen Curran explained: "Given the accelerating rate of Caesarean section globally, this finding warrants further research of a more robust quality using larger populations to adjust for important potential confounders and explore potential causal mechanisms."

The researchers also tried to see if there was a potential link between C-section and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but these findings were inconclusive.

(JP)