New research shows that the unbelievable rise in the number of autism cases in California cannot be fully explained by migration patterns, age at diagnosis, diagnosis of milder cases, or increased awareness of the disorder. According to Scientific American, which has reported on the story, California experienced a 600 to 700 percent increase in the number of autism diagnoses since 1990.
"Migration to the state had no effect" and "changes in how and when doctors diagnose the disorder and when state officials report it can explain less than half of the increase," according to the article. "That means the rest is unexplained and likely caused by something that pregnant women or infants are exposed to, or a combination of genetic and environmental factors." However, genetics would not be expected to change so dramatically and so quickly.
So just what has changed since 1990? The article mentions that exposure to "flame retardants used in furniture and electronics, and pyrethroid insecticides" has increased since then. Could it be "pet flea shampoos, which contain organophosphates or pyrethroids"? Is there "a link between autism and phthalates, which are compounds used in vinyl and cosmetics"? Or even antibacterial soaps that could effect the immune system?
The article further suggests that there may be a "fairly new infectious microbe, such as a virus or bacterium, that could be altering the immune system or brain structure."
The article further points to a parrellel "rise in childhood asthma, which has reached epidemic proportions for unexplained reasons."
This would seem to exonerate the use of thimerosal in vaccines, although parent groups may argue that there are other issues concerning vaccines, such as combined shots and aggressive vaccination schedules.
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