The CDC reported a rise in autism diagnoses among 8-year-old American children, from 1 in 36 in 2020 to 1 in 31 in 2022. This increase, nearly five times the 2000 rate, is attributed to improved awareness and screening, not a surge in autism prevalence. The CDC's findings contrast with statements by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who claimed an "autism epidemic."

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.