U.S. researchers call off controversial autism study

Provided by: Associated PressWritten by: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Sep. 17, 2008

CHICAGO - A government agency in the United States has dropped plans to test a controversial treatment for autism that critics had called an unethical experiment on children.

The National Institute of Mental Health said in a statement Wednesday that the study of chelation (kee-LAY'-shun) has been discontinued. The statement says the agency decided the money would be better used testing other potential therapies for autism and related disorders.
The study had been on hold because of safety concerns . A study published last year linked a chemical used in the treatment to lasting brain problems in rats.

The treatment removes heavy metals from the body and is based on the fringe theory that mercury in vaccines triggers autism - a theory never proved and rejected by mainstream science.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is intentionally paying attention to the present moment while putting aside our preconceived ideas, expectations, and judgments. It is being in connection with the here and now. Over the past 30 years there has been a buildup of evidence-based research using mindfulness practice to work with difficult medical and mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, addiction, insomnia, chronic pain, immune function, cancer, trauma, and more. Check this out: Mindfulness Blog by Dr. Goldstein: "The practice of mindfulness teaches us a different way to relate to our thoughts, feelings, and emotions as they arise. It is about learning to approach and acknowledge whatever is happening in the present moment, setting aside our lenses of judgment and just being with whatever is there, rather than avoiding it or needing to fix it. It’s the mind’s attempt to avoid and fix things in this moment that fuels the negative mood. So, if sadness is there, instead of...
Read more

The Stigma of Mental Illness

Image
Many people suffering from mental illness feel that society does not want them or understand them. As mental health professionals, we are here to educate families and society about mental illess. At some point in our lives most people are touched by mental illness with a family member, friend or even ourselves. May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Spread the news of healing and support for those suffering from mental illness.
Read more