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RFK Jr. Says Autism Is Preventable, Sparking Backlash From Scientists
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. caused controversy this week by calling autism “preventable” and dismissing genetic causes, drawing criticism from researchers and autism advocates. Speaking at a press conference in Washington, Kennedy focused on environmental toxins as the main cause of rising autism rates, despite no strong evidence supporting that claim.
His remarks came shortly after a new CDC report showed that autism now affects 1 in 31 eight-year-olds — continuing a steady increase over the last two decades.
Kennedy Rejects Genetics, Points to Environment
Kennedy criticized scientists who believe genetics play a major role in autism. Instead, he pushed for new studies on environmental risks like mold, food additives, and parental obesity. He claimed that many children were “fully functional” before suddenly developing autism after exposure to environmental triggers.
“Genes don’t cause epidemics,” Kennedy said. “You need an environmental toxin.”
Scientists Strongly Disagree With Kennedy’s Claims
Experts say Kennedy’s claims are misleading and scientifically inaccurate. Researchers have long accepted that both genetics and environment can influence autism, but there’s no proof the condition is preventable.
Dr. Eric Fombonne, a respected autism researcher, called Kennedy’s remarks “ridiculous.” Dr. Joshua Anbar, who helped compile the CDC data, added, “Autism isn’t an infectious disease. There are no clear preventive steps.”
Dr. Catherine Lord, a psychologist at UCLA, emphasized that genetics are a well-established factor. “That’s not in question,” she said. “The real scientific question is how genes and environment might interact—not which one to blame.”
Autism Rates Rising, But Better Screening Is a Factor
According to the CDC report, the rise in autism diagnoses is partly due to better screening, increased awareness, and broader definitions of autism. But Kennedy dismissed that explanation, calling it a “canard” and blaming environmental changes that began around 1989.
However, experts point out that autism was first studied in the 1940s and officially recognized by the medical community in 1980. Linking its rise to a single year is misleading, they said.
Kennedy Plans New Research Into Environmental Causes
Kennedy promised to launch government-funded research into toxins introduced in the late 1980s. He said he would release some findings by September and invite independent scientists to participate.
“We’re going to task them with certain outcomes,” Kennedy said, signaling a shift in federal research priorities.
Critics worry that this focus on environment-only theories may ignore decades of solid research into autism’s genetic roots and could steer funding away from urgently needed services and support for autistic individuals.
Dr. David Mandell of the University of Pennsylvania warned, “We are being set up to look in the wrong place and spend our resources in the wrong direction.”
