It’s a question dividing parents, doctors, and scientists alike: Why does autism seem more common than ever?
Some point to modern life — stress, microplastics, medications, or even pollution. Others, more recently, to ageing fathers. A new Cambridge study found that older men pass on more DNA mutations through sperm — some linked to autism and related conditions.
On paper, the numbers sound worrying. But psychologist Dr Rachel Moseley says there’s another explanation entirely: “There is no autism epidemic — only a diagnosis boom.”
She explains that autism has always been part of humanity; we’re simply learning to recognize it better, especially in adults and women who were long overlooked. “It’s not that more children are being born autistic,” she adds. “We’re just finally noticing the ones who always were.”
Experts agree the link between older fatherhood and autism exists — but the personal risk remains tiny. “Don’t panic,” says Professor Allan Pacey. “Across a population, you may see a pattern. For any one couple, the odds are still very small.”
And perhaps, as Dr Moseley reminds us, the real story isn’t about blame at all — but acceptance.
Because autism hasn’t suddenly appeared. It’s always been here — we’re only just beginning to understand it.
