evidence: Perhaps the easiest answer to why vaccines were associated with autism to begin with is the age at which childhood vaccines are given and when the first signs of developmental delay are typically seen. In the United States, the vaccine schedule recommends certain vaccines be given between birth and twelve months of age. At the same time, signs of a developmental delay – like the delays seen with autism – show up around the time a child should start to speak and interact more fully with people around them. [...] While the prevalence of autism has been increasing, the same science that looked at an association between vaccines and autism tells us we are probably measuring the prevalence of autism closer to what it has always been. This means that neurodiverse people, including those with autism, have always been here, and we are only now starting to understand how large that population is. While there is some evidence of a multifactorial process involving a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors can lead to symptoms of autism in a small proportion of cases. For most, science is moving toward agreement that autism is simply a natural variation of how brains develop. Further research is needed to fully understand these factors and their interactions, which could lead to more effective ways to diagnose ASD and provide accommodation, services, and care for those affected by it.[17] [...] 18. Knopf A. Time to remember: Vaccines don't cause autism. The Brown University Child and Adolescent Behavior Letter. 2021;37(7):9-10. doi:10.1002/cbl.30559