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Kennedy Blames Toxins for Rising Autism Rates, Experts Disagree

4/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. asserts that environmental toxins are driving the surge in autism rates across the U.S., challenging CDC conclusions. However, experts argue that improved screening and awareness are behind the rise in diagnoses. While genetics and parental age are known factors, the search for a clear environmental cause continues.

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Story summary

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. asserts that environmental toxins are driving the surge in autism rates across the U.S., challenging CDC conclusions. However, experts argue that improved screening and awareness are behind the rise in diagnoses. While genetics and parental age are known factors, the search for a clear environmental cause continues.