RFK Jr.'s Autism Stance Sparks Controversy and Debate

Autism rates in the U.S. have increased due to broader diagnostic criteria and improved detection, not an actual epidemic, despite political claims suggesting otherwise. The definition of autism has evolved since the 1940s, leading to more diagnoses across all severities and demographics, including underserved communities, with recent data showing higher prevalence among children of color. The focus on vaccines as a cause is scientifically unsupported, and the rise in diagnoses reflects better awareness and understanding rather than an increase in severity or incidence.