Autism's False Prophets

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Autism's False Prophets: Bad Science, Risky Medicine, and the Search for a Cure is a book written by Paul Offit, published in 2008. The book critically examines the controversies surrounding the causes and treatments of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly focusing on the anti-vaccine movement and the promotion of unproven therapies.

Overview

The book delves into the history of autism research and the rise of the anti-vaccine movement. Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine expert, argues that the movement has been fueled by misinformation and fear, leading to a decline in vaccination rates and subsequent outbreaks of preventable diseases.

Key Themes

Vaccines and Autism

One of the central themes of Autism's False Prophets is the debunking of the myth that vaccines cause autism. Offit discusses the origins of this myth, particularly the role of Andrew Wakefield's discredited study that falsely linked the MMR vaccine to autism. The book details the scientific evidence that refutes this claim and highlights the dangers of vaccine hesitancy.

Unproven Therapies

Offit also addresses the various unproven and sometimes harmful treatments that have been promoted as cures for autism. These include chelation therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and restrictive diets. The book emphasizes the importance of evidence-based medicine and the risks associated with untested treatments.

Impact on Families

The book explores the emotional and financial toll that the search for a cure can take on families affected by autism. Offit argues that false hope and pseudoscience can lead to significant distress and financial burden for these families.

Reception

Autism's False Prophets received praise for its thorough research and clear presentation of complex scientific issues. It has been lauded for its critical examination of the anti-vaccine movement and its advocacy for evidence-based medicine.

See Also

• Autism spectrum disorder
• Vaccine controversy
• Andrew Wakefield
• Paul Offit
• MMR vaccine
• Evidence-based medicine