AutismFACTS was created in July 2006 for the purpose of providing factual information about the increasing number of autism cases, the research and controversies surrounding it. Much controversy lies with the increasing belief that Thimerosal, a form of mercury used in vaccines that was substantially increased during the 1990's, fueled the number of children with autism and other childhood developmental disabilities in the United States and around the world. As a parent, I found the information concerning Thimerosal very disturbing.
My concern not only extended to autism but to all of the increasing disabilities seen in children today, including the increase in asthma and allergies. As a person who lives with autoimmune disease and having studied much surrounding this for years, the concern I had about the use of mercury in vaccines was well-founded. As a parent, I believe it is vital to understand exactly what the debates are, the research and what is pure hype or smoke and mirrors. It was estimated by various autism organizations in 2005 that approximately 40% of the parents of autistic children believe that Thimerosal caused their child's autism.
That number continues to rise as information continues to surface and more researchers and physicians are joining in with this belief. State bans on the use of Thimerosal in vaccines are becoming law as parents and researchers testify and lobby for these bans. Yet, the resistance by the Federal Government Agencies, particularly those who were responsible for the increase in the use of Thimerosal, continues as they deny any relationship exists between mercury in vaccines and autism, ADD, ADHD, speech disorders and other developmental disabilities in our children.
AutismFACTS is dedicated to giving you the straight facts concerning research and current debates concerning Thimerosal. We will also be covering the political arena, giving information about which members of Congress and the Senate are helping the autism community and those that are hurting them.
As of now, AutismFACTS is still in the process of building this web site and adding information in all relevant topics. AutismFACTS will continually be edited to include any changes or new information that we evaluate.
If there is anything AutismFACTS missed, such as current or past research projects, political Bills or a politician's stance on an issue, please contact us. We welcome any information that will help us do our job better. We also apologize for any delay that may occur in adding new information given to us. Some information is easier to add quickly while others take time to analyze and evaluate or confirm. However, we appreciate all contributions and will address all areas of concern as soon as possible.
Colleen Strom
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