A Collaborative Update on Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) now affects over 7 million Americans, with 1 in 31 children diagnosed, a 384% increase since 2000 (CDC, 2023; TACA, n.d.). Despite billions invested in genetic and behavioral research, no definitive cause or cure has been found. Meanwhile, families face lifelong disability, emotional hardship, and financial strain, often with no answers. This white paper presents a working hypothesis based on clinical observations, published case reports, decades of overlooked research, and emerging scientific evidence: That chronic, potentially congenital infections, particularly from bartonellosis, babesiosis, and borreliosis (Lyme disease), may be a root cause of autism in a significant subset of children.