How to explain the sharp rise in autism cases in industrialised countries in recent years? The neurodevelopmental disorder is partly hereditary, but the finger is also increasingly being pointed at pollution. Scientists in southern France are currently investigating the role of environmental factors in autism by following 1,700 families over 10 years. It's a groundbreaking study in a country that lags behind in autism research and diagnosis. To mark World Autism Awareness Day, FRANCE 24 went to Montpellier to meet one of these families. Emerald Maxwell and Sophian Aubin report.

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