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RFK Jr. Backs Illegal Stem-Cell Clinics for Autistic Kids

6/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed clinics offering unapproved stem-cell infusions for autistic children.
Autistic children in Florida, Texas and other states receive umbilical-cord stem-cell infusions costing up to $20,000 each.
The FDA says the products are illegal and have caused blindness, tumors and infections.
Better Stem, a Miami firm, invokes the 2018 Right-to-Try Act, though experts note it applies only to terminal illnesses, not autism.

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Story summary

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed clinics offering unapproved stem-cell infusions for autistic children.
Autistic children in Florida, Texas and other states receive umbilical-cord stem-cell infusions costing up to $20,000 each.
The FDA says the products are illegal and have caused blindness, tumors and infections.
Better Stem, a Miami firm, invokes the 2018 Right-to-Try Act, though experts note it applies only to terminal illnesses, not autism.