From: Eugen Leitl (eugen@leitl.org)
Date: Mon Sep 30 2002 - 10:47:21 MDT
On Mon, 30 Sep 2002, Robert J. Bradbury wrote:
> I think it will be quite interesting if there turns out to be a large
> genetic component in these diseases. Autism certainly limits your
Geek genes may cause autism
20-08-2002
Nick Farrell
A high incidence of autism in Silicon Valley could be down to the
'computer geek' genes of its workers.
More than one in 150 children in the area have some sort of autistic
disorder, a figure that is much higher than in the rest of the US.
The numbers of autistic children attending treatment centres in California
between 1987 and 1998 rose by 273 per cent.
Some scientists have put it down to better diagnosis but, according to a
BBC report, experts at the Mind Institute in Sacramento believe that
hi-tech workers in the area may be carrying genes which contribute to the
condition.
The theory is that 'computer geek' men are more likely to meet partners
who also carry autistic genes.
This is backed up in the UK, where areas that attract hi-tech workers also
suffer from unusually high levels of child autism.
Recent surveys of primary schools in the Cambridge area found similar
rates to those reported in Silicon Valley, the BBC said.
> chances of reproductive success and Aperger's might also limit them.
> But perhaps this is offset to some extent by greater intelligence.
I don't think that intelligence per se is currently a positive-fitness
trait. Especially, if it correlates with poor social skills and emotional
flatness.
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