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Variability in Autism Prevalence Revealed by CDC Report

A recent analysis has unveiled significant disparities in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across different geographical locations. Data indicated that rates of ASD detection vary widely, with Texas reporting just 9.7 cases per 1,000 children aged 8 in Laredo, while California recorded a striking 53.1 per 1,000 in the same age group.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alongside a network of researchers, suggest that these discrepancies likely stem from varying levels of access to early detection services and differences in diagnostic practices. In California, the state with notably higher prevalence rates, the Get SET Early initiative plays a crucial role in increasing early diagnosis. Through this program, numerous pediatricians have been trained to identify and refer children for ASD assessments at the earliest stages of development, which might explain the elevated identification rates, particularly among younger children. Additionally, California boasts regional centers that facilitate evaluations and service coordination for individuals with disabilities, further enhancing access to care.

Conversely, the two sites in Texas exhibiting lower ASD rates predominantly serve Hispanic and lower-income communities. The findings from these areas suggest potential impediments to accessing identification services, raising questions about the systemic barriers that may exist.

The disparities in autism diagnosis may also point to broader social determinants of health, such as economic factors, food insecurity, and unstable housing situations. Compounding these issues, external factors like increased rates of preterm births, which are associated with neurodevelopmental challenges, as well as environmental concerns such as lead exposure and traumatic brain injuries, may exacerbate these inequalities.

Conflict with Anti-Vaccine Advocacy

This report, rich in empirical data, stands in stark opposition to the claims made by various anti-vaccine proponents, most notably health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has positioned himself as a prominent figure in the anti-vaccine movement. Kennedy has propagated the thoroughly discredited notion that vaccines contribute to the development of autism. Recently, he appointed David Geier, who has a controversial history with anti-vaccine initiatives, to lead a federal study exploring the alleged link between vaccines and autism, despite an abundance of rigorous research affirming that no such link exists.

David Geier, lacking a formal medical or scientific background, has long aligned with his father, Mark Geier, to espouse these unsubstantiated claims. Notably, Mark Geier was stripped of his medical license in 2011 due to inappropriate treatments for autistic children, while David Geier faced penalties for practicing medicine without a license.

In a recent statement, Kennedy characterized autism as an “epidemic” that is “running rampant,” referencing his upcoming study with Geier. He promised that they would gather a team of distinguished scientists to explore the origins of this “epidemic,” with an expectation to unveil insights as early as September.

Source
arstechnica.com