Kennedy’s Autism Plan Deemed Unrealistic by Experts
Secretary Kennedy’s claim of quickly uncovering autism’s causes is deemed unrealistic by experts. Decades of research points to the involvement of approximately 200 genes and developmental brain differences present from birth, not solely environmental factors. While a new NIH database merging health records may aid in studying access to care and treatment, it’s insufficient to determine the complex, multifactorial origins of autism. Rising autism rates are largely attributed to broadened diagnostic criteria, not a sudden increase in severe cases. The link between genetics and autism is well-established, but environmental influences and their interplay with genetic vulnerabilities are also under investigation.
John Q. Hosedrinker