Research Reveals the Infants Born with Cytomegalovirus Are 2.5 Times More Likely to Develop Autism
A recent study from researchers at the University of Michigan indicates that the common virus cytomegalovirus (CMV), which affects about one in every 200 newborns in the United States, might significantly increase the risk of developing autism. The study’s authors analyzed medical records of nearly 3 million infants and found that those born with CMV were two-and-a-half times more likely to be diagnosed with autism compared to those without the virus. CMV, typically passed from mother to fetus during pregnancy, can cause inflammation in the developing brain, potentially disrupting normal development and leading to autism symptoms. Dr. Megan Pesch, the study’s lead author, suggests that increased awareness and screening for CMV could help in early intervention and support for affected families. While CMV is often asymptomatic, early detection could also aid in identifying related conditions such as hearing loss. This research highlights the need for broader CMV screening practices, similar to those implemented in other countries, to better support children at risk of autism and related developmental challenges.
