Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a large-scale research initiative to determine the cause of autism by September, prompting skepticism from some health experts. 

The Details: The “massive testing and research effort” would involve hundreds of scientists to investigate reports of rising autism rates. Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic, announced the initiative during a televised White House Cabinet meeting with President Donald Trump. "By September, we will know what has caused the autism epidemic, and we'll be able to eliminate those exposures," Kennedy said. 

For Context: Trump echoed concerns about rising autism rates, but experts and advocacy groups warned the initiative could hinder scientific progress. Autism, a developmental disability caused by brain differences, can involve delays in language, learning, and social or emotional development.

Key Quotes: In a lengthy statement denouncing the efforts, Autism Society of America President and CEO Christopher Banks expressed concerns regarding “the lack of transparency surrounding this proposed research and looming September deadline —specifically regarding who is leading this research, what methodologies are being used, and whether it will meet established scientific standards.” 

How The Media Covered It: Newsmax (Right bias) focused on the so-called autism epidemic, stating that “diagnoses in the United States have increased significantly since 2000, intensifying public concern.” BBC News (Center) reported that experts questioned the research initiative on autism, calling it “misguided and unrealistic.” Similarly, CBS News (Lean Left) framed its coverage around an interview with a former federal health official ousted by the Trump administration, who warned against offering “false hope” to families.

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