5 Ways to Prevent Autism During Pregnancy

Key Highlights

Lowering the risk of autism spectrum disorder involves creating the healthiest environment for your baby during a healthy pregnancy. While there's no way to guarantee prevention, certain steps can support your baby's neurodevelopment. Here’s a quick look at key strategies:

• Focus on a nutritious diet rich in key nutrients and take your prenatal vitamins, especially those with folic acid.
  
  
• Manage your health by attending regular prenatal checkups and addressing any pre-existing conditions.
  
  
• Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco.
  
  
• Reduce maternal stress through relaxation techniques and building a strong support system.
  
  
• Plan for optimal pregnancy spacing to lower the risk of autism.

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex condition that originates during early brain development. While there isn't a guaranteed method to prevent autism, research shows that expectant mothers can take meaningful actions to support a healthy pregnancy and reduce certain risks. This guide offers practical, evidence-based strategies designed to empower you with the knowledge to make informed choices. By focusing on nutrition, managing environmental factors, and prioritizing your well-being, you can help create an optimal environment for your baby’s development.

Understanding Autism and Pregnancy

The connection between pregnancy and autism spectrum disorder is a growing area of research. The prenatal period is a critical time for fetal development, especially for the brain. Various factors during this time can influence the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Understanding these influences allows you to take proactive steps to lower the risk of autism spectrum. By focusing on a healthy pregnancy, you can create a supportive environment for your baby from the very beginning. The following sections will explain what ASD is and why the prenatal period is so important.

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. As a spectrum disorder, it presents differently in each individual, with a wide range of strengths and challenges. Some may have difficulties with social interaction and communication, while others might show repetitive behaviors or have intense interests.

It is one of several neurodevelopmental disorders, meaning it originates from differences in how the brain develops. In some cases, individuals with ASD may also have an intellectual disability, but many have average or above-average intelligence. It's crucial to remember that every person with autism is unique.

Taking steps during pregnancy to support a healthy baby is a practical way to address the risk of such developmental challenges. Focusing on a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and regular medical care can create a strong foundation for your child's brain development.

Why Focus on Autism Prevention During Pregnancy?

Focusing on prevention during pregnancy is about proactively creating the healthiest possible environment for your developing baby. While you can't eliminate the risk of autism spectrum, making conscious choices during the prenatal period can support optimal brain development and contribute to a reduced risk of autism. Early lifestyle changes can indeed lower the chance of autism in your child by minimizing exposure to known risk factors.

This focus empowers expectant parents to take control of what they can. A healthy pregnancy sets the stage for a child's lifelong well-being. Simple actions, from diet changes to stress management, can have a significant positive impact on fetal development.

Think of this period as the first opportunity for early intervention. By making informed decisions before and during pregnancy, you are giving your child the best possible start and fostering an environment that promotes healthy growth.

The Connection Between Prenatal Factors and Autism Risk

The link between prenatal factors and the risk of autism is well-established. Your health and environment during pregnancy directly influence your baby's brain development. An increased risk can be associated with various factors, including maternal health conditions, exposure to certain substances, and infections.

For instance, maternal infections during pregnancy can influence autism risk. When the mother’s immune system is activated to fight off an infection, the inflammatory response can sometimes affect the developing fetal brain, potentially increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental issues.

This is why comprehensive prenatal care is so important. Regular checkups allow your doctor to monitor for potential issues, manage health conditions, and provide guidance on avoiding harmful exposures. By addressing these prenatal factors, you can help safeguard your baby’s development and reduce the overall risk of autism.

Factors That Influence Autism Risk in Pregnancy

Several elements can shape the autism risk during pregnancy, ranging from genetics to your environment. While you can't change your genetic factors, understanding your family's medical history can help you and your healthcare provider assess your unique risk factor profile.

Environmental factors also play a significant role. Your diet, stress levels, and exposure to certain substances can contribute to an increased risk of autism. By learning about these influences, you can make informed choices to foster a healthy environment for your baby's brain development. Let's look closer at these genetic and environmental influences.

Genetic Versus Environmental Influences

When considering autism risk, it's helpful to understand the interplay between genetic factors and environmental exposures. Genetics are thought to play a substantial role. A family history of autism can increase the likelihood, as certain genetic variations can make a child more susceptible. While no single gene causes autism, a combination of hereditary traits can contribute.

Environmental factors during pregnancy also have a significant impact. These include maternal health, nutrition, stress, and exposure to toxins. These pregnancy-related influences can interact with a child's genetic predisposition, affecting brain development.

Genetic testing may identify some risk, but it's not a definitive predictor. The development of autism is complex, often resulting from a combination of both genetic and environmental influences.

Maternal Health and Age Considerations

Your overall health and age during pregnancy are important considerations. Research shows a connection between parental age and the risk of autism. Advanced maternal age (over 40) and advanced paternal age (over 50) are associated with a higher likelihood of a child developing ASD. Pregnancies in very young mothers (under 20) also carry an increased risk.

Maternal health conditions are another key factor. Issues like unmanaged gestational diabetes or thyroid disorders can impact fetal development and increase the risk of autism. Maintaining good health before and during pregnancy is a proactive way to address these risks.

If you have concerns about your age or pre-existing health issues, it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider. They can help you create a personalized plan to manage these factors, ensuring the healthiest possible pregnancy and reducing potential risks.

Common Risk Factors Associated With Autism

Several common risk factors during the prenatal period are linked to an increased risk of autism and other developmental disorders. Being aware of these allows you to take steps to mitigate them. Pregnancy risk can be influenced by a combination of maternal health, genetics, and environmental exposures.

For example, certain complications during pregnancy or birth, such as preterm labor or low birth weight, are considered a risk factor. Maternal health issues that arise during pregnancy, like significant weight gain or infections, can also play a role in influencing your child's neurodevelopment.

To address these, focus on proactive prenatal care. Some common risk factors to discuss with your doctor include:

• Maternal infections: Illnesses like the flu can trigger an immune response that may affect fetal brain development.
  
  
• Certain medications: Some drugs, like specific antiepileptics, have been linked to a higher risk.
  
  
• Nutritional deficiencies: Lacking key nutrients such as folic acid can impact development.

Strategy 1: Nutrition for Autism Prevention

What you eat during pregnancy is a cornerstone of your baby’s health. A balanced diet provides the essential building blocks for proper brain development. Focusing on key nutrients like folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, and iron can help support a healthy pregnancy and may lower the risk of developmental issues.

Taking prenatal vitamins is also crucial to ensure you and your baby get everything you need. The right nutrition is a powerful and practical strategy for promoting optimal fetal growth. Next, we will explore the specific dietary components that make the biggest difference.

Importance of a Balanced Diet During Pregnancy

Maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy is one of the most effective ways to support your baby's brain development. The nutrients you consume provide the fuel for your baby's growing body and mind, creating a foundation for a healthy pregnancy. A diet rich in whole foods helps ensure your baby receives a wide range of vitamins and minerals.

Specific dietary changes can make a significant difference. Focus on incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods rich in folate, like leafy greens and beans, are particularly important. While a good diet is essential, it can be hard to get all the necessary nutrients from food alone.

This is why prenatal vitamins, including folic acid supplements, are highly recommended. They act as a nutritional safety net, helping to fill any gaps and ensuring your baby has everything needed for healthy development.

Key Nutrients: Folic Acid, Omega-3s, Vitamin D

Scientific evidence strongly suggests that certain vitamins and supplements play a role in healthy brain development and may help reduce the risk of autism. Folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D are three of the most studied nutrients for their benefits during pregnancy.

Getting enough of these key nutrients is vital. Prenatal vitamins are typically formulated to include them, but you can also boost your intake through your diet. A deficiency in any of these has been linked to potential developmental issues.

Here are some of the most important nutrients to focus on:

• Folic Acid: Crucial for preventing neural tube defects, research shows taking 400-800 mcg daily before and during early pregnancy can significantly reduce autism risk.
  
  
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed, these fats are essential for brain growth and cognitive function.
  
  
• Vitamin D: Adequate levels support both your immune system and your baby's brain development. Deficiency has been linked to a higher risk of ASD.

Probiotics and Beneficial Bacteria: Emerging Evidence

Emerging research is exploring the connection between gut health and brain development, with a focus on probiotics and beneficial bacteria. Your gut microbiome—the community of bacteria living in your digestive system—plays a role in regulating your immune system and overall health, which can influence your developing baby.

Prenatal exposure to a diverse range of beneficial bacteria may help shape your baby’s own microbiome and immune system in a positive way. Some studies suggest that a healthy maternal gut environment could be linked to a reduced risk of autism spectrum disorders by lowering inflammation and supporting neurodevelopment.

While this is a new area of research, the evidence is promising. You can support your gut health by consuming foods rich in probiotics, like yogurt and kefir, or by talking to your doctor about whether a probiotic supplement is right for you during pregnancy.

Real-Life Examples of Diet Changes Impacting Outcomes

We've seen many families in Georgia make simple dietary changes that contribute to a healthy pregnancy and positive outcomes. These real-life examples highlight how small adjustments can lead to a reduced risk of developmental issues. One expectant mother we worked with made a conscious effort to increase her folic acid intake by adding more leafy greens like spinach and lentils to her daily meals.

This simple change, combined with her regular prenatal vitamin, gave her peace of mind that she was supporting her baby's brain development. Another parent focused on incorporating fatty fish into her diet twice a week to boost her omega-3 levels, a nutrient she had previously overlooked.

These stories show that you don't need to make drastic overhauls. Focusing on specific, nutrient-dense foods is a practical and empowering step. Prioritizing a balanced diet is a tangible way to invest in your baby's future health.

Strategy 2: Managing Environmental Exposures

Protecting yourself from harmful environmental exposures during the prenatal period is another key strategy for reducing the risk of autism. Your developing baby is particularly vulnerable to environmental toxins, air pollution, and other chemicals that can interfere with healthy brain growth.

By being mindful of your surroundings and making conscious choices to limit contact with these substances, you can create a safer environment for your baby. The following sections will provide practical tips for identifying and avoiding common toxins to safeguard your pregnancy.

Identifying Harmful Chemicals and Toxins

During pregnancy, it's wise to be aware of and avoid certain harmful substances and environmental toxins that have been linked to an increased risk of autism. These can be found in everyday products, in the air we breathe, and even in some building materials. Awareness is the first step toward reducing your exposure.

Your prenatal care provider can offer guidance on specific chemicals to avoid, but you can also take proactive steps at home and work. Limiting contact with known toxins helps protect your baby’s delicate, developing systems.

Here are a few common environmental exposures to be mindful of:

• Pesticides: Found on non-organic produce and in garden products. Choose organic when possible and wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
  
  
• Phthalates and BPA: Often found in plastics, food packaging, and personal care products. Opt for glass containers and BPA-free products.
  
  
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Emitted from new paint, carpets, and furniture. Ensure good ventilation in your home, especially with new items.

Reducing Exposure to Air Pollution and Heavy Metals

Exposure to air pollution and heavy metals during the prenatal period has been identified as a significant environmental risk. Studies show a link between high levels of traffic-related air pollution and an increased chance of autism. Heavy metals like lead and mercury can also be toxic to a developing brain.

To reduce your exposure, try to avoid areas with poor air quality, such as busy highways, especially during peak traffic hours. On days when air pollution levels are high, it may be best to stay indoors. You can check the daily air quality index for your area online.

Limiting contact with sources of heavy metals is also important for a reduced risk of autism. Be cautious with older homes that may have lead paint, and be mindful of the types of fish you eat to avoid high mercury levels. These simple precautions can make a difference.

Tips for Creating a Safe Home Environment

Creating a safe home environment is a simple way to minimize harmful exposures during the prenatal period. Your home should be a sanctuary, and taking a few precautions can help reduce the risk of autism spectrum disorders linked to environmental toxins.

Start by evaluating the products you use every day. Many common household items contain chemicals that are best avoided during pregnancy. Reading labels and choosing natural alternatives can create a healthier space for you and your developing baby.

Here are some tips for a safe home:

• Use Natural Cleaning Products: Switch to cleaners made from simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda to avoid harsh chemicals.
  
  
• Filter Your Water: A good water filter can remove lead, chlorine, and other contaminants from your drinking water.
  
  
• Choose Safe Cookware: Avoid non-stick pans with PFOA coatings. Opt for stainless steel, cast iron, or glass cookware instead.

Case Study: Family in Georgia Limiting Environmental Risks

Let's look at a case study of a family in Georgia who actively worked to limit environmental risk during their pregnancy. Maria and David were concerned about environmental exposures after reading about their link to developmental issues. They decided to take proactive steps to create a healthier home environment for their future child.

They started by replacing their plastic food containers with glass ones and began using natural, unscented cleaning supplies. They also invested in an air purifier for their home, as they lived near a busy road. For their grocery shopping, they prioritized buying organic produce to minimize pesticide exposure.

These real-life examples demonstrate that small, manageable changes can collectively contribute to a reduced risk and a healthy pregnancy. Maria and David felt empowered knowing they were doing everything they could to minimize environmental risks for their baby.

Strategy 3: Maternal Health and Wellness Practices

Prioritizing your health and wellness is a critical strategy for a healthy pregnancy. Strong maternal health provides a nurturing environment for your developing baby, especially during early pregnancy when crucial development occurs. This involves more than just eating right; it includes managing existing health conditions and staying on top of your medical care.

Regular prenatal care and consistent wellness practices are your best tools for monitoring your health and addressing any issues proactively. Let's explore how checkups, managing health conditions, and other wellness habits support a healthy pregnancy.

Regular Prenatal Checkups and Screenings

Regular prenatal checkups are one of the most important steps you can take to support a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of ASD. These appointments allow your healthcare provider to monitor your health and your baby's development, enabling early detection of any potential issues.

Through routine screenings, your doctor can check for health conditions like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, which can impact your pregnancy if left unmanaged. This proactive approach to prenatal care is key to addressing problems before they become serious.

Don't skip your appointments, even if you're feeling fine. These visits are your opportunity to ask questions, discuss concerns, and ensure you're on the right track. Consistent medical supervision provides peace of mind and gives your baby the best possible start in life.

Managing Pre-existing Health Conditions (Diabetes, Thyroid, etc.)

Managing pre-existing health conditions is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Conditions like diabetes, a thyroid disorder, or high blood pressure can pose an increased risk of ASD and other complications if not properly controlled. Working closely with your healthcare provider is essential.

If you have a condition like diabetes, maintaining stable blood sugar levels is vital. Similarly, if you have a thyroid disorder, your medication may need to be adjusted during pregnancy to ensure your hormone levels are optimal for fetal development. Even conditions that develop during pregnancy, like gestational diabetes, require careful management.

Through diligent prenatal care, you can create a plan to keep your health in check. This proactive management helps mitigate common pregnancy risk factors and supports the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

The Role of Vaccinations Before and During Pregnancy

Getting recommended vaccinations before and during the prenatal period is a safe and effective way to protect both you and your baby. Vaccines work with your immune system to guard against serious illnesses that could cause complications during pregnancy. Contrary to misinformation, studies have repeatedly shown that vaccines given during pregnancy do not increase the risk of autism.

In fact, preventing infections like the flu or COVID-19 is beneficial for your baby's development. A severe maternal infection can trigger an inflammatory response that may affect the fetal brain. Vaccinations help prevent this from happening.

Talk to your prenatal care provider about which vaccinations are recommended for you. Staying up-to-date on immunizations is a simple yet powerful step you can take to support a healthy pregnancy and safeguard your baby's well-being.

Physical Activity and Healthy Weight Maintenance

Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are key components of a healthy pregnancy. Moderate exercise can help you manage weight gain, improve your mood, and reduce stress, all of which contribute to a better environment for your developing baby.

Both excessive and insufficient weight gain have been linked to a higher risk of complications, including preterm labor and developmental issues. Your healthcare provider can give you personalized guidelines for weight gain based on your pre-pregnancy weight.

Safe activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are excellent choices. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. By staying active and monitoring your weight, you are taking proactive steps to support your health and reduce risks for your baby.

Strategy 4: Minimizing Stress and Supporting Mental Wellbeing

Your mental wellbeing during the prenatal period is just as important as your physical health. High levels of maternal stress can affect your developing baby, so finding ways to manage it is a crucial strategy for a healthy pregnancy. Prioritizing your mental health can contribute to a reduced risk of autism.

Building resilience and practicing relaxation can create a more stable and nurturing internal environment for your baby to grow. In the sections that follow, we'll explore the impact of stress and share practical techniques for supporting your mental wellbeing.

Impact of Maternal Stress on Autism Risk

Yes, research indicates that high levels of maternal stress during pregnancy can increase the autism risk. When you experience chronic stress, your body produces hormones like cortisol that can cross the placenta and affect your baby's brain development. This can interfere with normal neural formation and increase the risk of ASD.

Prolonged stress can also lead to oxidative stress, a state of imbalance in the body that can damage cells, including those in the developing brain. This biological response is one of the mechanisms through which stress is thought to contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders.

It's important to recognize that experiencing some stress is a normal part of life. However, finding healthy ways to manage significant or ongoing stress is a proactive step toward protecting your baby's health and reducing potential risks.

Relaxation Techniques and Mindfulness Practices

Since prenatal stress can increase autism risk, incorporating relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices into your routine is highly beneficial. These methods help calm your nervous system, lower stress hormones, and promote overall mental wellbeing during the prenatal period, contributing to a reduced risk.

Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, which can help you break the cycle of anxious thoughts. Even just a few minutes of practice each day can make a significant difference in how you feel.

Here are some effective techniques to try:

• Deep Breathing: Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This simple practice can instantly lower your heart rate.
  
  
• Gentle Yoga or Stretching: Prenatal yoga is designed to be safe for expectant mothers and combines physical movement with calming breathwork.
  
  
• Meditation: Guided meditation apps can lead you through practices designed to reduce stress and improve focus.

Building a Support Network for Expectant Mothers

Building a strong support network is a powerful step you can take to safeguard your mental wellbeing during the prenatal period. Navigating a healthy pregnancy can be challenging, and having people you can lean on for emotional and practical support makes a world of difference.

Your support network can include your partner, family, friends, or a community of other expectant mothers. Sharing your experiences, fears, and joys with others who understand can alleviate feelings of isolation and reduce stress, which in turn helps lower the risk of autism spectrum disorders.

Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it, whether it's for running errands or just having someone to talk to. A solid support system is a cornerstone of a healthy and happy pregnancy, allowing you to focus on your wellbeing and the health of your baby.

In Our Sessions: Success Stories from Georgia Parents

In our sessions with families across Georgia, we have seen firsthand how a strong support network can lead to a healthy pregnancy and improved mental wellbeing. One expectant mother, Sarah from Atlanta, was feeling overwhelmed and anxious. She joined a local prenatal support group and found immense comfort in connecting with other moms-to-be.

These real-life examples show the power of community. Sarah’s group shared tips for managing stress and provided a judgment-free space to talk about their concerns. This support network helped her feel more confident and in control, contributing to a reduced risk of stress-related complications.

By prioritizing her mental health and leaning on her support system, Sarah was able to enjoy a calmer, more positive pregnancy experience. Her story is a testament to how building connections can be a vital part of preparing for motherhood.

Strategy 5: Addressing Medications, Infections, and Pregnancy Timing

The final strategy for a healthy pregnancy involves careful management of medications, infections, and pregnancy planning. Certain drugs and illnesses can pose potential risks to your developing baby, so it's essential to address them proactively with your healthcare provider.

Thoughtful prenatal care also includes considering the timing of your pregnancies. By being informed and deliberate about these factors, you can further reduce risks and create the best possible conditions for your baby's development. Let's look at how to navigate these important topics.

Monitoring Medication Use with Doctor Guidance

It is crucial to monitor all medication use during the prenatal period under the guidance of your healthcare provider. While some medications are necessary for managing health conditions, others may carry potential risks for your developing baby. Never start, stop, or change a medication without consulting your doctor.

Some drugs, such as certain antiepileptic drugs like valproate, have been linked to a higher risk of autism. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and risks of any medication and may be able to suggest safer alternatives during pregnancy.

This applies to prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and even supplements. While scientific evidence supports certain supplements like folic acid for preventing developmental issues, others may not be safe. Always have an open conversation with your provider to ensure your treatment plan is safe for both you and your baby.

Preventing and Managing Maternal Infections

Preventing and managing maternal infections, especially during early pregnancy, is a key part of reducing the risk of autism. When your immune system fights off an infection, the resulting inflammation can sometimes affect your baby's developing brain. Good hygiene and proactive prenatal care can help minimize this risk.

A strong immune response is necessary to keep you healthy, but managing it is key. Your healthcare provider can offer advice on how to stay healthy and what to do if you get sick.

Here are a few tips for preventing infections:

• Wash Your Hands Frequently: This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to avoid getting sick.
  
  
• Get Vaccinated: Stay up-to-date on recommended vaccines, like the flu shot, to protect against common illnesses.
  
  
• Cook Food Thoroughly: Avoid raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and seafood to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Optimal Pregnancy Spacing and Planning

Optimal pregnancy spacing is an important part of family planning that can contribute to a reduced risk of autism. Research suggests that conceiving less than 18 months after a previous birth is associated with a higher risk. This short interval may not give your body enough time to fully recover and replenish essential nutrients.

On the other hand, waiting too long—more than five years between pregnancies—has also been linked to a slightly increased risk. Discussing optimal planning with your prenatal care provider can help you determine the best timing for your family, considering factors like parental age and overall health.

Properly spacing your pregnancies allows your body to be in the best possible condition to support another healthy pregnancy, giving your next child a strong start.

Myth-Busting: Common Misconceptions About Autism Prevention

When it comes to autism, there's a lot of information out there, and it's important to separate fact from fiction. This myth-busting section addresses common misconceptions about prevention. The most important thing to know is that there is no guaranteed way to prevent autism. It is a complex condition influenced by both genetic factors and environmental risk factors.

The goal of these strategies is to reduce risk, not to find a cure or a perfect solution. Focusing on a healthy lifestyle gives your child the best start, but it doesn't eliminate all possibilities.

Here are some common myths to be aware of:

• Myth: Vaccines cause autism. Fact: Decades of research have shown no link between vaccines and autism.
  
  
• Myth: A specific "autism diet" during pregnancy can prevent it. Fact: While a balanced diet is crucial, no single diet can guarantee prevention.
  
  
• Myth: You can completely control whether your child has autism. Fact: Many factors, including genetics, are outside of your control. Focus on what you can influence, like your health and environment.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of pregnancy while being mindful of autism risk is essential for expectant parents. By implementing strategies such as maintaining a balanced diet rich in key nutrients, managing environmental exposures, and prioritizing maternal health and wellness, you can make informed choices that may positively impact your child's development. We've seen firsthand through sessions with families in Georgia how these proactive measures can lead to healthier outcomes and peace of mind for parents. Remember, every step taken towards a healthier pregnancy is a step towards a brighter future for your child. 

At Milestone Achievements, we’ve seen how proactive steps during pregnancy, like balanced nutrition and wellness, can give families peace of mind. Our team  partners with parents, educators, and professionals to provide guidance that supports healthy development from the very beginning with the help of ABA therapy in Georgia.

Explore strategies that nurture brighter futures for your child. Contact us today!

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https://www.quora.com/What-suggestions-do-you-have-for-expecting-mothers-who-want-to-minimize-their-risk-of-autism-in-their-children

https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-baby/pregnancy-and-autism-what-you-need-to-know/

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366%2822%2900264-4/fulltext