Background Information

Over the last two decades, scientific research on the role of nongenetic factors in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has resulted in a large and complex body of evidence on potential associations with environmental chemical exposures. The range and diversity of studies makes it difficult for researchers or the public to understand the state of the science or effectively use available data to inform research, funding, or policy decisions.

The aWARE tool will identify and characterize published literature on environmental exposures potentially associated with ASD using systematic evidence mapping. This approach uses the rigor and transparency of systematic review methodology to identify, categorize, and display data in an interactive visual format to aid synthesis and support evidence-based decisions. This tool will provide users with the ability to search, sort, filter, and download data based on their interest or research question.

This project is a collaboration between the Division of Translational Toxicology and the autism program within the Division of Extramural Research and Training. The aWARE tool will serve as a resource for the public and the research community, enabling general users to explore scientific research on ASD and the environment, while serving as tool for scientists to track emerging trends and assess their findings in the full context of prior data.

To support the use and utility of the aWARE tool, we have engaged the autism community, including autistic individuals and families, advocacy groups, clinicians, and researchers. Community engagement started with listening sessions that inform the aWARE research plan and featured a hands-on workshop to obtain feedback on a beta version of the tool. Input and engagement will continue as the tool is released and updated over the next several years.

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