EP38: SIDS, Autism & Vaccines: Nic Hulscher on Brain Development, Detox Pathways, and Infant Risk

In this episode of the Meehan Mission Podcast, Cathy Meehan speaks with Nic Hulscher, MPH, from the McCullough Foundation, about research surrounding autism spectrum disorder, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), vaccine safety, and infant neurological development.

Nic discusses findings from the Determinants of Autism Spectrum Disorder report, which reviewed more than 300 peer-reviewed studies examining potential contributors to autism. The conversation explores a range of factors discussed in the literature, including environmental exposures, medications during pregnancy, maternal immune activation, gut–brain interactions, and vaccination-related research.

A major focus of this episode is SIDS, including a discussion of:
• The role of cytochrome P450 detoxification enzymes in infants
• Why newborns and premature infants have underdeveloped liver detox pathways
• How toxin clearance differs between infants and older children
• A proposed mechanism involving brainstem inflammation and respiratory regulation
• Data discussed from VAERS analyses examining timing between vaccination and reported SIDS cases

Nic also addresses the challenges faced by physicians and researchers when interpreting vaccine safety data and discusses what he believes are next steps for reducing infant risk.

Learn more and access research updates:
Focal Points Newsletter: thefocalpoints.com
Follow Nic Hulscher on X: @NIC_Hulscher

Disclaimer: This episode reflects the views and interpretations of the speakers and discusses published research and hypotheses. It is intended for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Parents should consult qualified healthcare professionals regarding medical decisions.

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