Mon Apr 21 09:57:45 UTC 2025: ## RFK Jr. Claims One in 31 Americans Diagnosed with Autism; Experts Dispute Figure
**Washington, D.C.** – Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has claimed that one in 31 Americans has been diagnosed with autism, a figure significantly higher than official government statistics. Kennedy, a prominent anti-vaccine activist, made the assertion [during/in a recent speech/interview/etc. – specify source if known], sparking immediate pushback from medical and scientific communities.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently estimates the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the United States to be approximately one in 36 children. While the CDC acknowledges that the prevalence of ASD diagnoses is rising, the significantly higher figure cited by Kennedy lacks substantiation and is considered inaccurate by leading autism experts.
Experts have expressed concern that such unsubstantiated claims can contribute to misinformation and fear surrounding autism, potentially hindering efforts to provide support and resources to individuals and families affected by the condition. They emphasize that the increase in diagnosed cases reflects improved diagnostic tools and increased awareness, not necessarily a dramatic increase in the actual prevalence of autism.
Kennedy’s statement has not been accompanied by data or sources to support his claim. His previous pronouncements regarding vaccines and autism have been widely discredited by the scientific community. The discrepancy between Kennedy’s assertion and established epidemiological data underscores the importance of relying on credible sources for information regarding public health issues.
First Piper 