Dear Mr. Bird,
We are writing in response to your recent article published in VT Digger: “A closer look at hyperbaric oxygen therapy”. We were pleased to read about your genuine concern regarding the claims made by another opinion piece, written by Blume (2023), claiming hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may be a suitable intervention for conditions beyond the scope of its limited usage. Blume suggests that HBOT may be useful for treating autism, multiple sclerosis, Bell’s palsy, and a range of other conditions. While HBOT may be shown to be effective in future studies, current research does not demonstrate the effectiveness of HBOT as a treatment for autism. Additionally, the use of HBOT with people with autism may pose risks, as it may expose individuals to potentially life threatening and toxic levels of pure oxygen. Such risks are elevated without proper testing, putting people at serious risk if HBOT was administered for a condition it has not been approved for yet.
As such, the concerns brought up in this opinion piece are legitimate, and anyone considering the use of HBOT as a means of treatment for autism should strictly avoid doing so. A point to be considered is the claim of HBOT’s extensive popularity worldwide, according to Blume. Although this could possibly be true, the FDA has ruled HBOT as a potentially dangerous intervention for individuals with autism. Additionally, HBOT can be expensive and steer families away from cost-effective and safe treatments.
The mission of Association for Science in Autism Treatment is to counter pseudoscience and provide readers with information about safe, scientifically supported treatments for autism. The Association for Science in Autism Treatment has a particular interest in countering pseudoscience in autism treatment. We recognize that pseudoscience extends beyond the scope of autism; pseudoscience and false claims are prevalent with numerous other conditions. Pseudoscience, by its definition, is built upon claims that lack scientific validation, and should not be used to come to conclusions about any type or condition. Especially when choosing appropriate forms of treatment for any condition, pseudoscience should never be used to decide on an intervention. Instead, treatments should be selected when scientific testing and research demonstrates that they are safe and effective. We hope that you will consider sharing this information with your readers to help us promote the importance of science in autism treatment.
Sincerely,
Yash Gupta
Erin Leif, PhD, BCBA-D
Association for Science in Autism Treatment
