RFK Jr. claims autism is worse than COVID-19 deaths

In a recent interview, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made controversial statements regarding autism, comparing it unfavorably to the COVID-19 pandemic. This occurred during a Sunday broadcast on WABC 770 AM’s The Cats Roundtable, where Kennedy stated that the economic costs associated with autism would reach $1 trillion a year by 2035, arguing that autism impacts children’s productivity early in their lives. His assertions have raised concerns among autism advocates and health professionals, who fervently contest his claims. They argue that autism should not be termed an epidemic and emphasized the adverse effects of perpetuating stigma and misinformation surrounding autism. Kennedy further elaborated on his views that severe forms of autism, which he claimed affect about 26% of those diagnosed, lead to debilitating conditions for affected individuals and their families. He described profound autism as those who are non-verbal, struggle with basic self-care tasks, and experience intense behavioral challenges. His earlier comments, which implied that individuals with autism would not contribute to society, garnered heavy criticism from various notable figures and organizations, including Rosie O'Donnell, who called for his resignation due to the disrespect and stigma his words propagated. O'Donnell, who has a non-binary autistic child, publicly condemned Kennedy's statements and expressed disbelief that someone from a highly regarded family—known for creating the Special Olympics—could use such damaging language. She argued that it reflects a lack of qualification for his position. In reaction to Kennedy's remarks, the Autism Society of America released a statement denouncing the labeling of autism as an epidemic and emphasizing that most cases are based on genetic factors rather than external factors such as vaccinations or environmental toxins, which Kennedy suggested. The concerns surrounding Kennedy's rhetorical approach to autism continue to persist, especially given his attempt to link rising prevalence rates to environmental issues. Furthermore, RFK Jr. has indicated that he is investigating autism rates, claiming that significant findings should emerge by September. This investigation is seen as part of a broader agenda to scrutinize how environmental factors, possibly including vaccines, impact neurological conditions like autism. The ongoing backlash highlights the divide between contemporary scientific understanding of autism and the narrative propagated by those, like Kennedy, who see it through a lens of crisis and urgency. Subsequently, many have called for more substantiated methods of discussing autism to ensure proper representation and support for affected families and individuals.