Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is spearheading new research into environmental factors potentially contributing to rising autism rates, sparking debate and raising questions about diagnostic criteria and political motivations in Washington, D.C., in April 2025.

Secretary Kennedy announced new NIH studies focusing on environmental exposures, like mold and obesity, as potential factors behind increased autism diagnoses. He directly challenged the notion that better diagnoses are the primary driver. Kennedy stated, "This epidemic denial has become a feature in the mainstream media, and it's based on an industry canard. And obviously there are people who don't want us to look at environmental exposures." The announcement follows the release of a new report indicating increased autism rates. Critics have accused Kennedy of making inaccurate claims about autism and attacking children, while supporters prioritize investigating all potential factors. The shift in research direction and the controversy surrounding Kennedy's approach suggest a potentially contentious future for autism research and policy, with possible implications for public health funding and resource allocation.