Neurodevelopmental disorders

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Neurodevelopmental disorders such as fragile X syndrome are severe disabling conditions often associated with life-long impairment.

[edit] History

These disorders are now recognized to be the result of abnormalities in brain development due to both genetic and environmental/biological causes. In total, these conditions affect approximately 1-3% of the population, frequently resulting in substantial economic, physical and emotional burdens to individuals, families, and society. Therefore, research into the pathogenesis and treatment of these disorders, aimed at the cure and amelioration of their effects on individuals, families, and society, is of considerable importance. Some individuals, such as those found in the Neurodiversity movement, do not desire to be cured and view autism and related conditions as normal variations on human functioning.

[edit] References

Tager-Flusberg, Helen. (1999). Neurodevelopmental Disorders. The MIT Press. ISBN 026220116X

Naturally occurring and synthetic chemicals in the environment, such as lead, mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), have been shown to have neurotoxic effects. Exposure to neurotoxicants during critical moments of fetal and childhood development can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders. Individuals may also carry genes which can increase their susceptibility to the effects of toxic compounds such as pesticides.