Could Autism Be Associated With Nutritional Status in the Palestinian population? The Outcomes of the Palestinian Micronutrient Survey
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is believed that the cause of autism is multifactorial, where genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors. In this context, micronutrients play a crucial role. To present evidence on current micronutrient status in Palestine and highlight its possible role in increasing problems of neurodevelopment disorders in general and autism in particular. Analytical review of results. The Palestinian Micronutrient Survey was conducted to assess micronutrient status in most vulnerable groups and also micronutrient deficiencies. The data from Palestinian population showed severe anaemia due to iron, Zn, B12, and folic acid deficiencies. One in every 3 Palestinian pregnant women is anaemic. Moreover, 78.2% and 87.1% of lactating mothers from the West Bank and Gaza Strip are Zn deficient. For children from 6 to 59 months old, 1 in every 4 boys and 1 in every 5 girls are considered anaemic. Similar trend was found with respect to vitamins E, D, A, and folic acid. We reviewed the literature that linked micronutrient deficiencies to neurodevelopmental disorders and expected the number of neurodevelopmental disorder cases, including autism, to increase.
References
Citations
Software Mentioned
Related Concepts
Related Feeds
Autism
Autism spectrum disorder is associated with challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues. Here is the latest research on autism.
Anemia
Anemia develops when your blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells. Anemia of inflammation (AI, also called anemia of chronic disease) is a common, typically normocytic, normochromic anemia that is caused by an underlying inflammatory disease. Here is the latest research on anemia.