No explanation for 'scary' rise in autism.

Finding out why the brain development disorder was growing at such an alarming rate was the "million dollar question", Autism New Zealand Auckland manager Felicity Roberts said.
The increase was not explained by the population increase or another suggestion that it was now easier to diagnose.

Oh yes ... obviously has nothing to do with a broadening of diagnostic criteria and an adoption of an overly inclusive 'spectrum' or a resurgence in medical emphasis given behavioural excess, deficit, or difference. It used to pivot on 'a failure to interact with one's environment, principally social environment,' but now has become one of those 'wash up' diagnoses to explain and excuse dysfunctional child rearing or management resulting in 'odd' behaviour ... enables and reinforces the abrogation of parental responsibility in this.
Psychiatric taxonomy and associated 'educational medications' have indeed become a growth industry ... constructs from 'go to whoa.'
'Brain disorder' indeed.