Health Secretary Seeks to Uncover Root Cause of Autism
Erie, PA (April 17, 2025) - In a bold and unprecedented move, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has announced a comprehensive initiative aimed at uncovering the cause of autism by September 2025. Barber National Institute Executive Vice President Dr. Maureen Barber-Carey shares her viewpoint in this week's All About Autism blog.
Many in our community are very concerned about the spread of inaccurate and misleading statements by Secretary Kennedy regarding the causes of autism and the quality of life that individuals with autism can achieve. Research tells us that autism is a multifactorial condition, heavily influenced by genetics. It is not as he states “preventable.” He has stated that children diagnosed with autism are “suffering,” claiming that they will never work, find love, write a poem, play baseball, and “many will never use a toilet unassisted.” This is a totally inaccurate statement. I have personally witnessed countless people who have accomplished all these tasks and more and are leading fulfilling lives. His statements regarding autism as being “preventable” will certainly cause many parents to question what they should have done to prevent autism when it truly is not preventable.
Autism is not an epidemic. Referring to it as such will perpetuate misconceptions and stigma. Unlike epidemics, which involve contagious diseases spread rapidly among populations, autism is not contagious. It is a condition that individuals are born with or develop early in life. Understanding autism as a condition to live with rather than an epidemic helps promote acceptance and support for persons with autism.
