I think it is important to voice a scientific view that differs markedly from that of Simon Baron-Cohen of the Cambridge Autism Research Unit who has, according to recent media reports, been calling for a debate on pre-natal screening for autism.
Several aspects need to be taken into account in this important matter: Is the issue of elevated testosterone in autism valid? Is elevated testosterone specific to autism? What are the consequences for individuals with autism and future families contemplating pregnancy, particularly in light of recent media coverage depicting autism as a serious debilitating condition? What other issues in autism are being overlooked with the endorsement of this speculative hypothesis?
I think it is important to voice a scientific view that differs markedly from that of Simon Baron-Cohen of the Cambridge Autism Research Unit who has, according to recent media reports, been calling for a debate on pre-natal screening for autism.
Several aspects need to be taken into account in this important matter: Is the issue of elevated testosterone in autism valid? Is elevated testosterone specific to autism? What are the consequences for individuals with autism and future families contemplating pregnancy, particularly in light of recent media coverage depicting autism as a serious debilitating condition? What other issues in autism are being overlooked with the endorsement of this speculative hypothesis?
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