A True Increase in Autism

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s (RFK) recent comments on autism will go down in history. Kennedy, serves as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and describes autism as a “preventable disease.”

A former environmental lawyer, he has suggested that environmental toxins are behind the rise in the autism diagnosis and says he plans to look at everything from mold to medicine to identify the cause. His statement and viewpoint on autism is a monumental victory for the autism community. He aims to identify the causes of the autism epidemic.

Kennedy’s remarks and proposed research sparked much push back and criticism from some autism groups and individuals promoting inclusion and acceptance. We didnt accept cancer and we didnt accept diabetes, and therefore I’m not sure why there is such a tendency to accept a debilitating diagnosis like autism. The widespread debate was expected and the criticism can flow, but the time has finally come for the conversation on autism to change. Why would any parent want to sit back and accept a devastating diagnosis of autism and simply put it down to an increase in ‘awareness’. Surely we would investigate ‘why’ we seeing such an increase in the numbers of the diagnosis and find more treatments to alleviate the suffering? Autism is not simply an ‘identity’. At a closer look, it’s possible to peel away the layers of medical pathology that underlies this complex illness and to treat.

Children and individuals with autism can get better, feel better and go on to lead a more healthy and better quality of life with the right medical and educational interventions.

Kennedy’s initiative to explore potential environmental, genetic, or biological contributors is rooted in the desire to understand ‘why’. Many parents of children with severe autism—particularly those who are nonverbal, aggressive, or require full-time care—have felt neglected by governments and underserved by the current research agenda, which often focuses on acceptance rather than solutions or support. Kennedy gives voice to their frustration. His remarks resonates with families who want answers, not just awareness campaigns. Families of those with profound autism often struggle with the day-to-day realities of caregiving. Kennedy’s framing of autism as a condition that significantly impacts life functioning reflects those very real challenges and acknowledges the obstacles faced by many parents.

If we all so sure vaccines dont cause autism then there is nothing to worry about RFK revisiting the possible casual link. Surely, the numbers, 1 in 31, according to latest data from the CDC, require proper investigation. I have no doubt that RFK will leave no stone unturned to get to the bottom of this childhood disorder that is relentless in it’s challenges and hardships.

Ilana Gerschlowitz
Author Saving my Sons & Director The Star Academy

Click below to listen to RFK on autism: