By Dr. Benjamin Black, Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician and Medical Director of the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment
Vaccination remains one of the most effective public health interventions in modern medicine, yet persistent misinformation continues to link vaccines with autism spectrum disorder. As a multidisciplinary autism and neurodevelopmental center dedicated to evidence-based care and research, we believe it is crucial to address these misconceptions and reaffirm the overwhelming scientific consensus: vaccines do not cause autism.
The Origin of the Vaccine-Autism Myth
The claim that vaccines cause autism can be traced back to a now-retracted 1998 study published in The Lancet by Andrew Wakefield. The study suggested a link between the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism; however, it was based on a small sample size, lacked proper controls, and was found to be riddled with ethical and methodological flaws.
Subsequent investigations led to the study’s retraction, and Wakefield lost his medical license. Despite this, the misinformation took root, fueling vaccine hesitancy worldwide.
Scientific Evidence Disproving a Link
Over the past two decades, extensive research has been conducted to investigate any potential association between vaccines and autism. Large-scale studies, including those by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and independent researchers, have consistently found no link between vaccines and autism.
For example, a landmark 2019 study conducted in Denmark followed over 650,000 children and found no increased risk of autism in those who received the MMR vaccine compared to those who did not. Similar studies worldwide have reinforced these findings, further discrediting the claim that vaccines contribute to autism diagnoses.
Understanding Autism’s True Origins
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with complex genetic and environmental influences. Advances in genetic research have identified hundreds of genes associated with autism, and studies indicate that autism begins in early brain development, often before birth. Environmental factors, such as prenatal exposures and complications during pregnancy, may contribute to autism risk, but vaccines are not among them.
The Dangers of Vaccine Misinformation
Misinformation about vaccines has real-world consequences. Decreased vaccination rates have led to outbreaks of preventable diseases, such as measles, which had been nearly eradicated in many countries. When vaccine uptake declines, vulnerable populations—including children with neurodevelopmental conditions—face increased risks of severe illness.
Our Commitment to Evidence-Based Care
As clinicians, researchers, and advocates for individuals with autism, our Center remains committed to disseminating accurate information. We encourage families to rely on reputable sources, such as the WHO and the American Academy of Pediatrics, when making health decisions.
Autism is a lifelong condition that requires compassion, understanding, and scientific inquiry. Ensuring that families receive accurate information about its causes—including dispelling harmful myths about vaccines—is essential to promoting both public health and the well-being of the autism community.
For more information, we invite you to explore our Center’s research initiatives and educational resources on autism and neurodevelopment. We remain committed to allocating our resources, expertise, and time for the betterment of our patients and their families and will continue to follow the science in researching the causes and best interventions for children with autism.