RFK Jr. Declares Autism Rise an ‘Epidemic,’ Plans Investigation into Toxins

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly asserted that the recent surge in autism diagnoses in the U.S. represents an 'autism epidemic' that cannot be explained by improved diagnostic criteria or genetics, but rather by unidentified environmental toxins. Citing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data showing autism rates rising from 1 in 36 to 1 in 31 children, Kennedy argued that autism is a preventable disease caused by exposures to environmental pollutants in air, food, and medicines. He criticized the mainstream media for downplaying the issue and dismissed explanations attributing rising rates to better awareness or services as 'epidemic denial.' Kennedy announced his department will launch new studies to identify the environmental causes of autism, aiming to publish results by September. His stance contradicts CDC research, which maintains that differences in prevalence may stem from changes in diagnostic practices rather than environmental risk. Kennedy's remarks have drawn concern from advocates and experts, who note that his views perpetuate debunked theories and risk stigmatizing autistic individuals.