Yes, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is known to have a significant genetic component, which means it can run in families. Research has shown that if one family member has autism, there is an increased likelihood that other family members might also be affected by the condition to some extent.
The risk of having autism is higher among siblings and other close relatives of individuals with ASD compared to the general population. However, it's important to note that autism is a complex and multifactorial condition, and not all cases are solely caused by genetic factors. Environmental factors and interactions between genes and the environment also play a role in the development of autism.
It is still an active area of research, and scientists continue to investigate the precise genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, the way autism is inherited can be complex and not follow a simple pattern in every family.