Guest guest Posted April 1, 2008 Report Share Posted April 1, 2008 Sorry if this has been posted already - Media response - General Medical Council hearing against Dr. Wakefield Print this page ---------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------- The National Autistic Society (NAS) is keenly aware of the understandable concerns of parents surrounding suggested links between autism and the MMR vaccine. We are especially concerned that the ongoing GMC hearing, and surrounding media coverage, could create further confusion and make it even more difficult for parents to get the right medical advice for their children, most notably on suspected gut or bowel problems, which can cause considerable pain and distress to those affected and great anxiety for parents. It is important that this case is not allowed to increase the lack of sympathy that some parents of children with autism have encountered from health professionals. Some parents have reported to us that in some cases their concerns have been dismissed as hysteria following publicity around MMR, that symptoms were dismissed as untreatable or simply put down to their child's autism. This is unacceptable. People with autism should get the same standard of healthcare as anyone else. It is vital that any suspected gut or bowel problems are investigated thoroughly and promptly, and where necessary referred on for specialist advice and treatment. We urgently need more, authoritative research into the gastrointestinal problems experienced by some people with autism and for research into whether special diets, such as wheat or dairy free diets, could be beneficial. There is currently limited evidence for these diets and people should discuss their individual needs with their doctor. The NAS also believes that all healthcare professionals should expect to meet patients with autism, and should therefore be trained in the condition so they can offer appropriate care and better understand parents' concerns. Autism affects one in 100 people in the UK. It is a serious, lifelong and disabling condition which, without the right support, can have a devastating impact on the lives of individuals and their families. Benet Middleton Director of communications Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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