Former FDA Official Questions Kennedy Jr.'s Autism Claims Amid Rising Prevalence

A former top FDA vaccine official has raised questions about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s pledge to identify the cause of autism by September. The official's concerns stem from Kennedy's statements regarding the rising prevalence of autism in the United States.

Recent data from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study indicates that approximately 1 in 31 children are identified with autism. Kennedy has cited these figures to support his claim of a growing "epidemic" of autism. However, experts and advocacy groups have criticized this characterization as potentially stigmatizing and misleading.

The CDC's study suggests that the increased prevalence of autism diagnoses may be linked to improved screening and access to services in some communities. The study also noted that autism prevalence varied among different racial and ethnic groups, with higher rates observed in Asian, Black, and Hispanic children compared to White children.

Kennedy has expressed his belief that an "environmental toxin" is the cause of autism, pointing to potential factors such as food contaminants and vaccines. However, numerous studies have debunked the claim that vaccines cause autism. While research into other potential environmental factors is ongoing, the federal government's autism research coordination office has stated that more investigation is needed to draw firm conclusions.

Kennedy has stated that autism is preventable and that identifying the underlying causes is a priority. He has announced plans to assemble teams of scientists to focus on research, with the expectation of having answers by September. Leading autism organizations have expressed skepticism about this promise and concerns that Kennedy will revive discredited theories.

The CDC has also released a statement noting the wide variation in autism prevalence across different study sites. This variation could be due to differences in the availability of early detection, evaluation, and diagnostic practices. The release of the CDC report was delayed, and plans to make agency experts available for interpretation were scrapped.