What is the Defeat Autism Now! protocol and how do I find a physician?

Answer 1

DAN is a groug of doctors, not all of whom are pediatricians, who use alternate methods in an attempt to cure or alleviate some of the symptoms of autism. Many advocate high doses of vitamins, B12 injections, special diets, chelatin therapies, hyperbaric chambers and other "natural" treatments, They also tend to support limited or no vaccinations, believe that mercury in vaccines is one of the causes of autism and that certain enzymes are missing from the child's chemical makeup. While some of these therapies have helped autistic children, there are some things to keep in mind when considering DAN treatments.

1. There are no scientific studies from major medical researc facilities...hospitals, colleges or private research institutes...that support the findings of DAN treatments as being effective. Many DAN practioners will say this is due to government or indutrial conspiracy and use studeis done by DAN members here and in Europe to support thier treatments. YOu must review all materials available from all sources to make an informed decision.

2. These treatments fail more than they succeed. Even when they do work, they are usually not effective for extended periods of time and require frequent testing to adjust vitamins and supplemental intacts.

3. DAN treatments are not covered by any major insurance companies and tend to be costly. Testing needed to adjust supplement levels is also very exspensive as they are testing for minute traces of some enzymes. Many families find it difficult to meet the dietary restrictions or to go through the period of fasting needed to cleanse the child's system before beginning the new plan.

4. Again, not all DAN physicians are pediatricians. Many have worked only in research or biogenetics. Be sure to check all DAN members credentials before beginning treatment.

I have chosen not to use DAN procedures in treating my son. Many families I know have used some of the protocols. Of that group, some have had limited success, but most stop the treatment after awhile. As one mother I know said, "We;ve done it all and we're still autistic."

Answer 2

I also am concerned about DAN. They use questionable treatments such as chelation, which experts agree is not a effective treatment for autism AND it is dangerous to childrens' health.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,167195,00.html

Also, have you considered that it may not be in the child's best interest to pursue a "cure"? Of course you should help autistics with adapting to the world. However, you really shouldn't try to eliminate autism from the child. It will never be possible and it is akin to trying to turn the child into a different person altogether. By trying to cure them you are risking their health, wasting your money, and sending them the message that you don't like THEM..you like the "other" children. A good site where you can find out about the dangers of curing autism and hear from many autistics themselves is www.aspiesforfreedom.com (the site seems to be having troubles today though)
http://autistics.org/
http://web.syr.edu/%7Ejisincla/dontmourn.htm
http://home.att.net/~ascaris1/dontcure.html
http://www.sentex.net/~nexus23/naa_02.html

Answer 3

Defeat Autism Now is a group of doctors (I think 30) that are devoted to fnd a cure for autism..quickly. This is geared for parents who are wanting a biomedical approach for autism. If you type in DAN! Doctors in search you should get the DAN! website where they have a list of practicing DAN! physicians listed by state.
Best wishes!

Answer 4

DANS are a team of professionals that take a biomedical approach to the treatment of autism.

Answer 5

Here is a site about the protocol and also a site to help you find a DAN Dr in your area. Good luck as it can take a while to get in.

These Drs believe in delayed vaccination, only one vaccine at a time no combined shots. Some believe in chelation therapy which is controversial as well as dietary changes.

Answer 6

I urge you to study up on DAN! doctors. They act on the premise that autism is mercury poisioning which has never been proven. There have been lots of studies to refute these claims. These guys are just snake-oil salesman preying on desperate parents (like you). They overwhelmingly push for chelation therapy which is dangerous and has killed autistic children. Is your child's life worth it to you?