Question about heredity of autism

[nyanne]

Hi all, this is my first post. I stumbled across this site while googling autism and mercury. Anyway...my younger brother was diagnosed and labeled as having "autistic like tendencies" when he was three. He is now 27. I know people question whether or not their second child will be autistic if their first is. Here is my question. Having an autistic brother...anyone know the possibilities of me having children with autism?? I just got engaged, so it's kind of on my mind. My fiance was asking me about this tonight. Thanks!
Anne

[Lisa S]

Hi Anne,
I'm sorry but I don't know. I will see if I can find any information for you.
Lisa

[mom2Zack]

Hi Anne,
My son is mildy autistic and my husband has 2 cousins that both have autistic daughters. The cousins are on his mom's and dad's side of the family. Our behavior specialist does believe it is hereditary and told us that he believes that it carried by both parents. Hope this helps. I guess its hard because no one really knows....

[nyanne]

Thanks for the info. I'll do more research myself, too. :)