Despite the years of research done on the issue, no one knows the exact cause of autism in children. While the symptoms of autism are clear, the causes are not. In fact, most of the proposed causes of autism are considered to be controversial in the medical world. Many have presumed that the cause of autism is genetic, although the results of various results regarding this field are not yet conclusive. Nonetheless, even the experts admit that generic factors do not explain autism risk in children. This has prompted many groups to do their own research on the matter, hence the various claims on the causes of autism. For instance, there are a number of studies linking autism to vaccines, while others claim that autism is caused by a problem in a person's immune system. Then there are groups who say that autism can be caused by food and medical substances, the ones also responsible for causing birth defects.



The possibility that autism is not caused by genetics is a significant development on the research against autism. Since medical experts are focused on the fact that autism is due to genetics, they have limited their choices of medications and treatments for autistic children. Those who suffer from autism take psychotropic drugs—or medications that affect one's central nervous system, altering brain functions—and undergo therapy—to correct a number of symptoms due to the disorder. But they do not cure autism; instead, they are more like maintenance procedures. After all, the standing belief today is that autism cannot be cured.

However, DAN doctors think other. DAN doctors, or Defeat Autism Now Doctors, believe that more than a genetic illness, autism is actually a biomedical disorder. In other words, they believe that autism is caused by certain food products and chemicals, as well the combination of external toxins from vaccines and a weak immune system, among others. The Defeat Autism Now project began in 1960s, founded by the Autism Research Institute headed by Dr. Bernard Rimland.

DAN Doctors are professionals who address these concerns using what they call the “DAN Protocol.” This protocol aims to address the biochemical irregularities in one's body by using vitamin supplements, diets, and digestive enzymes, among others. With the irregularities fixed, they believe that autism can be cured. In fact, many have claimed that they have seen dramatic developments through the use of the Dan Protocol. DAN Doctors will assist patients with the various steps of the protocol, which includes the homeopathic detoxification, as well as prescribe the necessary supplements and diets (most gluten free, among others). This also includes testing for food allergies that can cause complications in autistic children, treatment for yeast overgrowth, and chelation.

Many people are hesitant with the use of these unorthodox methods when it comes to treating autism. Yet, while they claim these treatments are not proven, even the treatments of the so-called mainstream doctors are not necessarily proven as well. DAN Doctors could have the answer many people have been researching for.