Could Autism Be Associated With Nutritional Status in the Palestinian population? The Outcomes of the Palestinian Micronutrient Survey

BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is believed that the cause of autism is multifactorial, where genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors. In this context, micronutrients play a crucial role. OBJECTIVE: To present evidence on current micronutrient status in Palestine and highlight its possible role in increasing problems of neurodevelopment disorders in general and autism in particular. METHOD: Analytical review of results. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The Palestinian Micronutrient Survey was conducted to assess micronutrient status in most vulnerable groups and also micronutrient deficiencies. The data from Palestinian population showed severe anaemia due to iron, Zn, B12, and folic acid deficiencies. One in every 3 Palestinian pregnant women is anaemic. Moreover, 78.2% and 87.1% of lactating mothers from the West Bank and Gaza Strip are Zn deficient. For children from 6 to 59 months old, 1 in every 4 boys and 1 in every 5 girls are considered anaemic. Similar trend was found with respect to vitamins E, D, A, and folic acid. We reviewed the literature that linked micronutrient deficiencies to neurodevelopmental disorders and expected the number of neurodevelopmental disorder cases, including autism, to increase.