HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has pledged to investigate the causes behind the rising autism rates in the U.S., focusing on potential environmental toxins. Despite criticism for past controversial claims, Kennedy has committed to taking a science-based and neutral approach in this federal research initiative.
Kennedy Pledges Autism Research Based on Latest Data
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addressed the nation on Tuesday following the release of new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicating that 1 in 31 U.S. children are now diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This marks a sharp increase from earlier figures — 1 in 150 for children born in 1992 and 1 in 36 for those born in 2012.
Rejecting the Diagnostic Explanation Alone
During his first Washington press conference since taking office, Kennedy argued that improved diagnostics account for only a fraction — around 25% — of the growing prevalence. He emphasized the need to look beyond changing diagnostic criteria and recognition rates, asserting, “It’s clear that the rates are real.”
CDC and Kennedy Offer Contrasting Perspectives
While the CDC attributes the rise largely to better screening practices, Kennedy disputes that narrative. He insisted that the federal government must examine potential environmental causes more thoroughly and transparently.
Controversial Past Meets Official Role
Kennedy’s views on autism have long stirred public debate. He has been known for promoting disproven theories linking vaccines to autism, though he avoided discussing vaccines directly in his latest remarks. He did include “medicines,” along with mold, food additives, and pollutants, among the possible contributors that will be examined.
Promise of Federal Research and Real-Time Data
Kennedy plans to direct federal research efforts to uncover the root causes of autism, promising preliminary findings as early as September. He also called for the U.S. to modernize its data systems, enabling real-time tracking of autism rates — similar to infectious diseases like measles.
Collaboration and Controversy
Kennedy named epidemiologist Martin Kulldorff, a figure known for his opposition to COVID-19 vaccine mandates and lockdowns, as one of the experts reviewing federal research grants related to the autism study. Kulldorff’s involvement may draw scrutiny, given his history of controversial stances within the public health community.
Reaction from the Autism Community
Kristyn Roth from the Autism Society of America responded cautiously to Kennedy’s announcement. While she welcomed more research, she emphasized the need for the process to be rooted in sound science and include input from the autism community. Roth also expressed concern about the lack of communication from HHS so far.
Shift Toward Chronic Disease Research
Kennedy’s broader policy direction emphasizes addressing chronic diseases over infectious ones. He stated that the federal government should respond to autism with the same urgency as infectious disease outbreaks, reflecting a potential reorganization of public health priorities under his leadership.
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