A growing group of researchers now believe that the large increase in childhood autism in the past generation may be linked to vitamin D deficiency caused by sun avoidance.

“Autism is increasing exponentially and is related to vitamin D deficiency,” says Dr. Marc Sorenson, vitamin D advocate and author of “Vitamin D3 and Solar Power for Natural Health.” “As I have pointed out in my book, both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.”

Sorenson continues, “The cost of autism is about $35 billion annually, and the societal cost for each case is about $3.2 million. The most alarming increase in autism is observed over the past few decades, and its incidence is currently growing at the rate of 10-17% per year. Dr. John Cannell wrote a compelling paper on how autism could be caused, at least in part, by lack of vitamin D during brain development.”

Sorenson hosts a blog, which is linked to www.TanningTruth.com, which includes a blog entry about autism. His book is now available for purchase at www.SunlightAndHealth.org.