The Autism ‘Epidemic’ Myth Harms Real People
- David Ruttenberg
- Apr 20
- 2 min read
By David Ruttenberg, FRSA, FIoHE, AFHEA
As a neuroscientist developing technologies to empower neurodivergent people—and as a father to a brilliant autistic daughter—I reject Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s dangerous narrative framing autism as a “preventable epidemic.” This rhetoric isn’t just scientifically flawed; it dehumanizes millions of global citizens and threatens decades of progress in disability rights.
The Data Shows Progress—Not Crisis
Kennedy claims autism rates have surged from 1 in 150 children in 2000 to 1 in 31 today, labeling this an “epidemic”. 1,3 But the CDC attributes the rise to better screening, expanded diagnostic criteria, and reduced disparities in underserved communities.1,6 For example:
Black and Hispanic children, once severely underdiagnosed, now receive earlier evaluations.1
Girls—who often mask autism traits—are being identified and accommodated more accurately.6
Adults who spent decades undiagnosed are finally gaining access to support.6
This isn’t a crisis—it’s a triumph of awareness. To call it an “epidemic” implies autistic people are a problem to eradicate, not human beings deserving dignity.
The Real Harm of ‘Preventable’ Rhetoric
Kennedy’s focus on finding an “environmental toxin” to blame1,5 resurrects debunked vaccine myths and risks:
Stigmatizing families: Suggesting autism is “preventable” implies parents failed to shield children from hypothetical toxins—a cruel and unscientific burden.6,9
Diverting resources: Over $2 billion has been wasted on failed “cause-seeking” genetics research since 2000, while waitlists for autism therapies stretch for years.3,7
Empowering bad actors: Kennedy hired David Geier—a researcher barred from medicine for exploiting autistic children—to lead this effort.4 Geier previously promoted dangerous “treatments” like chemical castration.4
As the Autistic Self Advocacy Network warns: “This isn’t science—it’s fear-mongering to advance anti-vaccine agendas”.3,6
What Autistic People Actually Need
Our daughter Phoebe—diagnosed with autism, epilepsy, and ADHD—doesn’t need a cure. She will tell you—if you are willing to listen—that she and others in her community need:
Accommodations: Noise-canceling apps for sensory sensitivity, distractibility, anxiety, and fatigue—along with flexible learning formats, and assistive communication tools.
Healthcare access: 40% of autistic adults have no regular physician due to provider bias.7
Employment opportunities: 85% of autistic college graduates are unemployed—a systemic failure, not an individual deficit.7
Kennedy’s focus on “prevention” ignores these urgent needs. Meanwhile, his proposed Medicaid cuts would strip away lifelines like speech therapy and respite care.6,9
A Better Path Forward
We must:
Follow autistic leadership: Prioritize research led by autistic scientists on topics like assistive tech and workplace inclusion.7
Invest in support systems: Fund therapies, caregiver training, and community programs instead of speculative toxin hunts.
Combat stigma: Replace “epidemic” language with neurodiversity-affirming frameworks that celebrate autistic strengths.
Autism isn’t a tragedy—but the demonization of autistic people is. Let’s abandon Kennedy’s harmful narrative and build a world where neurodivergent individuals thrive as they are. As I’ve learned from Phoebe: Difference isn’t a defect to fear. It’s a catalyst for innovation, empathy, and growth.
David Ruttenberg is a Fulbright Specialist and founder of Phoeb-x, developing ethical AI tools like Ínairí.app for neurodivergent communities.
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