The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is conducting a research investigation to determine if there’s a link between childhood vaccinations and autism risk, despite health experts’ long-standing assertion that no substantial scientific evidence supports this claim. The move comes after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. confirmed the agency will leave “no stone unturned” in its mission to uncover what may be driving the increase in autism diagnoses.
The CDC’s announcement reignited a longstanding debate over a theory lacking substantial scientific evidence, with vaccination skeptics and experts alike citing various factors that contribute to autism risk, including genetics, premature birth, and parental age. While vaccines are widely regarded as safe and effective, concerns about vaccine safety have led to low childhood vaccination rates in the US.
Experts say early intervention therapies for autism can significantly ease symptoms and improve quality of life. These include discrete trial training, early intensive behavior intervention, verbal behavioral interventions, positive behavior support, cognitive behavioral therapy, social skills training, sensory integration therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medication, and more.
The CDC’s investigation follows President Donald Trump’s claim that autism rates in the US have skyrocketed from 1 in 10,000 children to 1 in 36. However, experts argue that this increase may be due to improved diagnosis rather than a causal link between vaccines and autism.
In 2023, researchers identified seven genes linked to an increased risk of autism, with genetics being the likely top factor contributing to the development of the condition. The CDC’s investigation aims to shed light on this relationship and provide more clarity for parents and the general public.
Ultimately, experts stress that children should continue to follow their recommended immunization schedules to prevent disease spread and protect vulnerable populations who cannot receive vaccines due to medical conditions or other factors.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/autism-vaccine-link-cdc-investigation