WASHINGTON (TNND) — Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is under fire for controversial remarks about children with autism. Kennedy claimed that autistic children are unable to pay taxes, hold a job, write a poem, go on a date, or use the toilet without assistance. Following backlash, Kennedy clarified on Fox News that he was referring to the more than 25% of people with severe autism.

Thank you @SeanHannity for letting me set the record straight. Bottom line, the more than 25% of people who have severe autism will never go on a date, write a poem, live independently, or have a job. We need to identify the exposures that are causing this epidemic and compensate the families of the injured. @HHSgov under my leadership, will be unrelenting in assisting affected individuals in living up to all their potentials.

Dr. Brian Sutterer, a sports medicine physician, criticized Kennedy's comments, stating, "This should be grounds for being fired." He added, "I support his initiatives around healthier food, but RFK Jr. holds some truly harmful and misinformed views on medicine and healthcare."

A recent CDC report indicates that fewer than 40% of children diagnosed with autism in 2022 were also identified as having an intellectual disability. The World Health Organization states that while some individuals with autism require significant, lifelong support, many others live independently, maintain employment, and lead full, meaningful lives. Autism exists on a spectrum and cannot be accurately described with a single, sweeping statement.

Kennedy also sparked controversy by calling autism a "preventable disease," attributing its rise to environmental factors. Autism spectrum disorder is classified as a neurological and developmental disorder affecting communication, social interaction, learning, and behavior. CDC data shows that one in 36 children was identified with autism in 2020, a significant increase from one in 150 in 2000. Kennedy claims the number has risen to one in 31.

Kennedy announced that his department is conducting massive testing and research efforts involving hundreds of scientists worldwide to identify the cause of the autism "epidemic" by September. However, there are concerns that Kennedy's efforts may point to vaccines as the cause, which could have serious public health consequences. Last month, he directed the CDC to study the potential link between vaccines and autism.

While the exact cause of the increase in autism rates remains unclear, scientists suggest that a broader definition of the disorder, improved detection methods, genetics, and exposure to environmental chemicals may play a role.