Remember the Mad Hatter from the childhood classic Alice in Wonderland? Back then, hat-makers used mercury compounds — over-exposure caused symptoms people called “mad.” Could there be a parallel today with environmental toxins, immune stressors, and rising rates of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Some parents and researchers believe so, and many families are still looking for answers.

📈 What we do know about autism rates

• According to current data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 31 (≈ 3.2%) 8-year-old children in the U.S. have been identified with ASD. CDC+2CDC+2
• ASD is diagnosed over 3 times more frequently in boys than in girls. National Institute of Mental Health+1
• Autism affects children of all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. CDC+1

These numbers are significantly higher than older stats (e.g. “1 in 166”) that were often cited decades ago. That increase alone raises questions and concerns among many parents and caregivers.

🤔 Why some people still question the causes — and what we don’t know

• There has long been concern around the use of a mercury-based vaccine preservative called Thimerosal. While thimerosal was removed from most routine childhood vaccines in the U.S. by 2001 as a precautionary measure, some parents and advocacy groups continue to express concern about mercury exposure from vaccines and other environmental sources. NCBI+2CDC+2
• On the other hand, multiple major reviews and epidemiologic studies have not found consistent evidence that thimerosal-containing vaccines cause autism. National Academies+2CDC+2
• Given that autism diagnoses continued to rise even after thimerosal was removed — many argue this complicates or weakens the claim that that preservative was a major factor. CDC Archive+2CDC Archive+2
• Scientific and medical authorities differ on the strength of evidence. While the majority stand by the conclusion that vaccines (and thimerosal) are safe — some parents and clinicians believe the official position doesn’t fully account for long-term environmental exposures, genetic differences, or the complexity of neurodevelopment.

In short: No one, to this day, can say for certain what causes autism. There are many hypotheses — genetic, environmental, immunologic — and still many open questions.

🌿 What about Chiropractic care — and why it might matter

At our clinic, Body Traxx Chiropractic, we believe in supporting the body naturally. Here’s what we suggest for parents who want to take a holistic — but realistic — approach:

• Regular chiropractic care can help maintain proper alignment and function of the spine and nervous system — which some families find supports general health and resilience.
• While we don’t claim chiropractic “prevents” or “cures” autism, many families seek supportive care to help their children respond better to therapies, reduce stress on the nervous system, and promote overall wellness.
• If you have concerns over immune-stressors, vaccines, or environmental risks — combine informed conversations with your pediatrician and other specialists with a focus on healthy lifestyle, nutrition, nervous-system support, and preventative care.

🧩 A balanced approach — informed choice and care

We respect every family’s right to ask questions, demand transparency, and make informed decisions. Autism is complex. Its causes remain not fully understood. If you’ve got concerns — about vaccines, environmental toxins, heredity, or nervous-system stress — it’s valid to explore all angles. That’s why we encourage open discussion, thoughtful research, and holistic support when appropriate.

If you or someone you know has a child on the spectrum and you’re curious whether supportive chiropractic care might help, remember Dr. Jeff Boerger is here to help, not judge. 

📍 Body Traxx Chiropractic
1010 Old Austin-Hutto Rd, Pflugerville, TX 78660
📞 512-647-8424
🕒 Tues, Wed, Thurs 10 AM–7 PM | Sat 10 AM–2 PM
🚶‍♂️ Walk-ins welcome — no appointment needed!

Be Blessed

Dr. Jeffrey Boerger DC