September 30, 2025

On September 30, 2025, experts from the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute (AJDAI) at the Drexel Dornsife School of Public Health held an important and timely conversation addressing urgent questions raised by recent national discussions on autism. Experts shared why rigorous science is critical now more than ever—and how individuals can help support it. Topics included Tylenol, vaccines, and Leucovorin. The virtual event was wrapped up with a Q&A.

"One of the things we'll talk about is the difference between correlation, two things that happen together, and causation, one thing causing the other. A simple way to think about it is this. Ice cream sales are correlated with shark attacks, but it's not a causal relationship. If you ban ice cream sales, you won't reduce shark attacks. The same caution applies when we see scientific studies that find correlations," shared Diana Robins, PhD, director of the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute.

"We have to design experiments specifically to determine whether one aspect truly causes the other or whether something else might explain the connection. Our goal tonight is to separate evidence from speculation and give you the facts to guide your decision-making."

Moderator:

Diana Robins, PhD, Director, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute

Panel:

• Dena Gassner, PhD, Senior Research Scientist, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute
• Matt Lerner, PhD, Associate Professor, Director of the Social Connections and Treatment Lab, and Life Course Outcomes Program Leader, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute
• Diana Schendel, PhD, Professor, Modifiable Factors in Autism Research Program Leader, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute

Watch:

In addition to this event, AJDAI experts continue to be featured in the media. Keep up with the AJDAI by visiting their website.

Visit AJDAI website