Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the nation’s top health agency will conduct a large testing and research effort to determine the cause of autism by September, involving hundreds of scientists. President Donald Trump suggested that vaccines may be to blame for autism rates, although scientific consensus has found no link between the two. Autism is a developmental disability with symptoms such as delays in language, learning, and social skills, caused by differences in the brain.
Genes play a significant role in autism, while environmental factors such as prenatal exposure to pesticides, air pollution, and parental health issues may also contribute. Kennedy’s proposed study has raised concerns among leading autism organizations, who fear a return to debunked theories. The rise in autism diagnoses over the years is attributed to increased awareness, changes in diagnosis criteria, and improved screening services.
Anti-vaccine advocates, including Kennedy, have long claimed that vaccines cause autism, despite scientific evidence to the contrary. Kennedy has hired David Geier, known for his claims linking vaccines to autism, to lead the research effort. However, Geier has been found to practice medicine without a license in Maryland.
While more research is needed to understand the causes of autism, Kennedy’s approach has been met with skepticism and concern from leading autism advocacy groups. Despite ongoing debates, the scientific community has consistently refuted the link between vaccines and autism.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
