Thu May 22 12:43:32 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text, focusing on the key information and tailored for a general audience:
**Headline: U.S. Autism Research Sparks Debate: Experts Urge Caution Against Misinformation and Parental Blame**
**Chennai, India -** A new initiative in the United States to investigate environmental causes of autism is generating discussion and concern among autism experts in India and elsewhere.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently announced a large-scale research effort to identify environmental toxins potentially linked to the rising rates of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the U.S., citing a recent CDC report showing an increase in autism diagnoses.
While experts agree that environmental factors, alongside genetic predispositions, likely play a role in autism, concerns are arising around Kennedy’s approach which is not supported by scientific consensus.
Dr. Sheffali Gulati, a child neurologist at AIIMS New Delhi, emphasizes that autism is a complex condition with multiple genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors at play. She stresses the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
Several experts are cautioning against placing blame on parents or promoting debunked theories linking vaccines to autism. Dr. Ennapadam S. Krishnamoorthy, a neuropsychiatrist and founder of Buddhi Clinic in Chennai, highlights the need to combat misinformation, particularly regarding vaccines.
Tyler Evans, Adjunct Associate Professor, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Department of Population and Public Health Sciences noted “Framing autism in this way is scientifically inaccurate and socially irresponsible. This kind of language risks placing blame on parents and caregivers, particularly mothers, for outcomes far beyond their control. It reinforces stigma and creates shame where there should be support,”
Dr. Gita Sankaran, founder of WeCAN, notes that increases in diagnosis are primarily due to greater awareness of the condition and increased access to information about ASD, especially for less severe cases.
The focus, experts say, should remain on early diagnosis, intervention, and providing support to individuals with autism and their families. Maternal health, including mental health, during pregnancy also deserves more attention. Experts also caution that focusing solely on “prevention” could stigmatize parents and patients.
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