Evidence of Harm: Mercury in Vaccines and the Autism Epidemic: a Medical Controversy - Hardcover

"Read this book! Could thimerosal, a mercury-containing preservative used in pediatric vaccines, be the cause of the world-wide epidemic of autism? David Kirby's superb, even-handed account of the investigation into this ongoing, high-stakes controversy is fascinating and compelling. The poignant personal accounts of the families of autistic children are heart-wrenching. A thoroughly researched, well written, and important book." - Bernard Rimland, director of the Autism Research Institute and founder of the Autism Society of America

In the 1990s, autism in American children began spiking, from 1 in 10,000 in 1987 to a shocking 1 in 150 today. In this period, two series of shots containing a mercury-based preservative called Thimerosal were added to the nation's already crowded vaccination schedule. Parents suddenly noticed their healthy children descending into silent, disturbed, and physically ill autism soon after receiving vaccinations. Ignored or dismissed by the FDA and the CDC, they discovered that children were being exposed to mercury at very young ages - even before birth - at levels far exceeding federal regulations. "Evidence of Harm" explores both sides of this controversy, which has pitted families against the federal government, public health agencies, doctors and researchers, and powerful pharmaceutical giants. It reveals: story of Thimerosal: a mercury-based additive approved by the FDA in the 1930s and never subsequently tested; increase in autism and the direct parallel to the increase in number and frequency of Thimerosal-containing vaccinations; secret meeting at which FDA, CDC, medical, and pharmaceutical company officials discussed mercury, vaccines, and autism; and mysterious rider to the Homeland Security bill, introduced by Senator Bill Frist, which would free drug companies of liability in lawsuits regarding autism. This disturbing, important book examines both the personal stories of families and the unfolding political drama in the courts and halls of Congress.