Linking autism to vaccinations.

• • In 2010, The Lancet retracted the paper, and Wakefield was stripped of his medical license.  
• Persistent Misinformation:
  • Despite the retraction and numerous studies debunking the link, the misinformation persists, fueled by online sources and anti-vaccine movements.  
  • Concerns about thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative formerly used in some vaccines, also contributed to the controversy. However, thimerosal has been largely removed from childhood vaccines, and studies have found no link between thimerosal and autism.  
• Scientific Consensus:
  • Major health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), have concluded that there is no link between vaccines and autism.  

Current US-Based Research on "Other Causes" of Autism:

Current research strongly indicates that ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with multiple contributing factors. These factors include:  

• Genetic Factors:
  • Studies have identified numerous genes associated with an increased risk of ASD.  
  • Genetic factors are believed to play a significant role in the development of ASD.  
  • Research continues to explore the complex interplay of genes and their influence on brain development.
• Environmental Factors:
  • Research is investigating potential environmental factors that may contribute to ASD, such as:
    • Advanced parental age.
    • Complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
    • Exposure to certain environmental toxins.
  • It is important to note, that while these factors are being researched, that does not mean that they are proven causes.
• Brain Development:
  • Research indicates that ASD is associated with differences in brain structure and function.  
  • Studies are exploring how these differences may contribute to the characteristic behaviors and symptoms of ASD.

Supporting Evidence:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
  • The CDC provides comprehensive information on autism, emphasizing that vaccines do not cause ASD.  
  • They highlight the importance of genetic and environmental factors in ASD development.
  • You can find this information on the CDC website, that provides many peer reviewed studies.
• Autism Speaks:
  • This organization funds and supports research into the causes, prevention, and treatment of ASD.  
  • They provide evidence-based information on ASD, emphasizing the importance of genetic and environmental factors.
  • This organization also provides many links to peer reviewed scientific studies.  

In summary, the scientific consensus is clear: vaccines do not cause autism. Current research focuses on genetic and environmental factors as the primary contributors to ASD.