Dr. Roger H. Bernier, Associate Director for Science at the National Immunization Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will testify regarding the recent discussion of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices regarding thimerosal. Autism is a syndrome characterized by impairments in social relatedness and communication, repetitive behaviors, abnormal movements, and sensory dysfunction. Autism may now affect 1 in 150 U. S. children. We will hear from Dr. Marie Bristol-Powers of the National Institutes of Health regarding the existing research in autism. The characteristics of autism and of mercury poisoning are strikingly similar.
Autism strikes families from a diverse background.
Three of these parents will be testifying today. The lead author of the report is Sallie Bernard of Cranford, New Jersey. Lyn Redwood of Tyrone, Georgia is a nurse practitioner, and Albert Enayati, of Paramus New Jersey is a chemist. Dr. Sharon Humiston, a doctor with an autistic child will also be testifying. Our children are the future of this country.