In recent weeks, a controversial new therapy for autism has been making waves in Queensland. Dr. Genevie Dar Marage, a chiropractor, claims her clinic in Brisbane is achieving remarkable results with non-verbal autistic children using photobiomodulation—a type of laser therapy. The technology, which involves red lasers, is purported to stimulate brain activity and build new neural pathways. Dr. Dar Marage has been promoting this treatment across various media platforms, including Nine’s Queensland, NES Radio 4BC, and Seven’s Sunrise.
However, Dr. Dar Marage’s credentials and the scientific validity of her methods have come under scrutiny. Despite being presented as a leading expert in autism and neuroscience, Dr. Dar Marage is, in fact, a chiropractor. Her colleague, Dr. Kyle Daigle, who supports her claims, is also a chiropractor and co-founder of the biotech company selling the laser device for upwards of $8,000. These details were conspicuously absent from the media coverage.
The treatment is based on the Melo Method, developed by another US chiropractor, Robert Melillo, whose brain balance treatments have been criticised by the Association for Science in Autism Treatment as lacking empirical evidence. In 2019, an NBC News investigation reached a similar conclusion, labelling the methods as pseudoscientific.
Australian autism experts have also expressed scepticism. Professor Andrew Whitehouse from the Telethon Kids Institute stated there is no credible science supporting the efficacy of red light laser therapy for autistic children. He criticised the media for promoting such unproven therapies, highlighting the potential harm to parents who may be misled into trying these expensive and unverified treatments.
In response to these criticisms, Dr. Dar Marage provided a list of research papers and defended her clinic’s success, claiming over 30 clients have benefited from the therapy. She warned against further negative coverage, emphasising the seriousness of the accusations against her business.
Meanwhile, the media landscape has been busy with other significant stories. Australia’s Olympic success was somewhat overshadowed by the scandal involving hockey player Tom Craig, who was arrested for buying cocaine. This incident drew substantial media attention, contrasting starkly with the nation’s sporting achievements.
On a more serious note, Australia’s top spy agency, ASIO, issued a new terror warning, indicating a probable attack within the next 12 months. The threat now stems from politically motivated, disengaged young males influenced by internet misinformation and conspiracy theories. ASIO’s Director-General, Mike Burgess, called for responsible reporting, highlighting the role of the media in inflaming tensions and violence through sensationalist coverage.
Social media platforms have also been under fire for their handling of content related to nuclear power. Renew Economy and the Climate Council had their posts removed or accounts suspended for promoting anti-nuclear views, only to be reinstated after appeals. These incidents suggest that pro-nuclear advocates may be exploiting automated systems to silence opposing voices, raising concerns about the integrity of public debate on these platforms.
In summary, while innovative therapies and significant news stories capture public attention, the importance of rigorous scientific validation and responsible media reporting cannot be overstated. The potential for harm through misinformation and sensationalism is substantial, underscoring the need for careful scrutiny and ethical journalism.
https://teasmith.au/resource/experts-shocked-over-nine-news-story-media-watch/
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