Despite all his shortcomings, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s willingness to talk openly about autism as concerns about public health led a few of us to search out hope spots at his arrival as a secretary for health and human services.
As parents and supervisors, we all know the challenges that the opposite person sees More than 25% of individuals with autism Who has its deepest shape and typically requires life -long support across the clock. In recent years, the eye of our society has devoted itself to the spectrum elsewhere. This includes in federal research where the Sub -representation of individuals with severe autism Is Dramatic despite topics From self -harm to seizures.
So we also hoped with Kennedy's anti-access of his confirmation hearings.
Instead, we saw a wild swing in a distinct direction, as Kennedy Quickly the HHS workforce In an enormous fill.
If autism is a crisis of public health, it’s difficult to see how An effective answer would come By cutting off the roles of hundreds of Researchers, doctors and other employees. As Kennedy back and a few said would returnIt added the sensation of chaos. It will not be clear where Kennedy HHS takes – or those that need advantageous research.
It was just as worrying that civil servants try to check vaccines again As a possible reason for autism, a The path that was kept persecuted – Johns Hopkins University starts 16 “carefully designed” studies found with no link. Washington Post reports that Kennedy has existing fears chosen an extended -term vaccine skeptic lead the efforts. Kennedy's unrealistic statement last week on April 10 that “we know what the autism epidemic caused in September”, showed empty bravery and never scientific seriousness.
After Kennedy's turbulent start, it’s time to change the course. The focus of vaccine must give method to a broader, credible seek for autism causes and targeted research so as to address disturbing medical and behavioral challenges.
There is an available path that corresponds to the administration's efficiency goals by specializing in essentially the most profound needs and Kennedy concerns about public health.
At the tip of last 12 months, the congress, the newly authorized, with cross -party support, the Autism Cores ActThe primary vehicle for autism research. This time it contained significant recent languageFor the advocate, it was difficult to demand research results that “reflect the entire population of people with autism spectrum disorder, including people with simultaneous conditions and the entire selection of needs for support and services”.
Kennedy can bring this guideline to life.
As the start, he can provide more studies that truly actually Add individuals with heavy autism as a test subject. While there are challenges to take part in non -verbal people, they may be overcome if Researchers invest the effort and timetrack Innovative methods to raised understand the needs of essentially the most affected needs of autism.
Investigations should be carried out on the causes of among the most worrying impairments that may go hand in hand with autism, comparable to self -harm, aggressive behavior and even catatonia Noticed by the Autism Science Foundation. This would result in treatments.
Since communication is such a universal need, it is usually time to prioritize recent methods and technologies on this area. Current augmentation and alternative communication approaches comparable to gestures or use of tablet apps, have significant restrictions.
After all, we cannot avoid the talk concerning the increase in autism cases. While some attribute the climb Factors comparable to increased awareness and a broader definition of autismWe need comprehensive answers and research must bear in mind each genetically and potentially external aspects at work.
These are first steps. If Kennedy adapts the course, you’ll mark a crucial begin to help a gaggle of individuals overlook too long.
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