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US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s approach to autism is facing strong criticism from autism experts and autistic individuals. Kennedy's plans include expansive monitoring of autistic people's health records, proposed cuts to disability services, and a large-scale study linking autism to vaccines—a debunked theory. Experts highlight the harmful impact of these actions, which contradict the rising autism diagnosis rate due to improved detection and awareness, not an 'epidemic'. Proposed cuts to research, education, and healthcare threaten decades of progress in autism support and understanding.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.