Immunization vs incidence of Autism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Immunization vs incidence of Autism - Essay Example Immunization is one of the factors that have been implicated in the incidence of autism. Since 1999 there has been a controversy about whether thimerosal–containing vaccines contribute to the causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and neuro-developmental disorders (NDDs) in children. Autism affects not only the children living with the condition but the families of these children. Some siblings have to learn how to cope with a brother or sister who is autistic. It is of great importance to parents and has caused many parents to question the safety of immunizing their children. Several parents have refrained from immunizing their children against common childhood diseases. This has caused conflicts in schools where immunization is a requirement of a young child entering school. It is important therefore to understand as much as we can about this disorder and whether there is in fact a connection between vaccination and the disorder. The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the Autism Spectrum Disorder spectrum and immunization. The paper seeks to review the research evidence provided on both sides of the debate. Does the immunization of a child in fact increase the possibility of developing autism or is there no relationship between the chemicals in childhood immunizations, e.g. thimerosal and autism? It is important to try to determine how valid and reliable the research studies are. Parents need to be reliably informed about the consequences and possible dangers of immunizing their children. The analysis of the topic could help them in their decision about whether to immunize or not. An initial examination of the topic could help in the weighing up of the pros and cons of immunization against the possibility of the child being vulnerable to developing the autism disorder or any other neuro-developmental disorder. It