"The Controversial Endorsement: Sen. Ron Johnson’s Support for a Discredited ‘Cure’ for Autism"
Sen. Ron Johnson Endorses Controversial Book Advocating Chlorine Dioxide as Treatment for Autism and Other Ailments
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In a move that has sparked significant controversy, Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson has publicly endorsed a book promoting the use of chlorine dioxide, a chemical primarily known for its applications in disinfection and bleaching, as a treatment for a range of ailments, including autism. The book, titled The War on Chlorine Dioxide: The Medicine that Could End Medicine, is authored by Dr. Pierre Kory, a critical care specialist who has faced disciplinary actions for promoting unproven treatments for COVID-19.
Background on Chlorine Dioxide
Chlorine dioxide is a chemical compound used in various industries, including food processing, water treatment, and medical sterilization. While it is effective as a disinfectant, safety experts warn that concentrations exceeding 0.8 milligrams per liter can pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as infants and pregnant women. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified chlorine dioxide as potentially harmful when ingested in high doses, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings against its consumption, citing risks of severe injury and even death.
Despite these warnings, Kory’s book claims that chlorine dioxide can treat conditions ranging from cancer and malaria to autism and COVID-19. Kory argues that there is a coordinated effort by public health agencies and the pharmaceutical industry to suppress evidence of chlorine dioxide’s purported benefits.
Johnson’s Endorsement
Senator Johnson’s endorsement of Kory’s book is notable, as he has a history of promoting controversial medical treatments. In a statement to ProPublica, Johnson confirmed that he approved the blurb on the book’s cover, which describes it as “a gripping tale of corruption and courage that will open eyes and prompt serious questions.” This endorsement aligns with Johnson’s previous advocacy for unproven treatments, including ivermectin, which has been widely discredited as a COVID-19 treatment.
Kory has previously lost his medical certification due to his promotion of ivermectin and other controversial treatments. He continues to assert that the medical establishment is engaged in a “war” against alternative therapies, claiming that doctors who advocate for such treatments face intimidation and professional repercussions.
The Scientific Community Responds
Experts in the medical and scientific communities have condemned the promotion of chlorine dioxide as a treatment. Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill University’s Office for Science and Society, described the claims surrounding chlorine dioxide as “lunacy” and “100% nonsense.” Helen Tager-Flusberg, director of the Center for Autism Research Excellence at Boston University, criticized Johnson for endorsing a book that makes unfounded claims about treating autism with chlorine dioxide, labeling it as “snake oil.”
The autism community has long been targeted by proponents of dubious treatments, with many parents seeking unproven remedies in desperation. Melissa Eaton, a mother of an autistic child, has been vocal against the promotion of chlorine dioxide, stating that many children suffer adverse effects from its use, including vomiting and diarrhea. Eaton emphasizes that parents often misinterpret these symptoms as signs of the treatment working, further endangering their children’s health.
The Broader Implications
Johnson’s endorsement of Kory’s book reflects a growing trend among some lawmakers who challenge established scientific consensus. Dr. Peter Lurie, president of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, noted that Johnson is no longer an outlier in Congress, as anti-science sentiments have gained traction among elected officials.
Earlier this year, Johnson held a Senate hearing that highlighted a flawed study suggesting vaccinated children face higher risks of chronic diseases, contradicting the prevailing scientific consensus on vaccine safety. This trend raises concerns about the potential impact on public health, particularly as misinformation about vaccines and treatments continues to proliferate.
Conclusion
As The War on Chlorine Dioxide prepares for its public release in January, the implications of its endorsement by a sitting U.S. Senator cannot be understated. The promotion of unproven treatments poses significant risks to public health, particularly for vulnerable populations. As the debate continues, experts urge caution and adherence to established medical guidelines, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medicine in safeguarding public health.
For those seeking reliable information on autism and its treatments, experts recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals and relying on peer-reviewed research rather than unverified claims circulating in popular media.