Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is sounding the alarm over the increasing number of U.S. children diagnosed with autism, calling the rise an “alarming” trend. On Wednesday, Kennedy pledged to spearhead comprehensive studies aimed at identifying any environmental factors that might contribute to the growing prevalence of the developmental disorder.

This statement comes just one day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report revealing that approximately 1 in 31 children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with autism—up from 1 in 36 in 2020. The spike in autism diagnoses has raised questions about potential causes, leading Kennedy to emphasize the need for further investigation.

Kennedy described autism as a “preventable disease,” despite it not being classified as a disease but a complex disorder that affects brain development. “Autism destroys families,” Kennedy stated. “More importantly, it destroys our greatest resource, which is our children. These are children who should not be suffering like this.”

While Kennedy’s focus is on understanding the environmental factors that may contribute to autism, experts in the field suggest the rising numbers may also reflect changes in how the condition is diagnosed. Over time, the definition of autism has expanded to include cases that are milder, contributing to a higher number of diagnoses.

Autism, a developmental disorder, manifests in a wide range of symptoms, including delays in language, learning, and social skills. Some individuals may not show symptoms until adulthood. While no single cause has been identified, researchers believe genetics play a significant role. In addition, factors such as a child’s father’s age, maternal weight, and prenatal exposure to certain chemicals have been linked to autism risk.

Kennedy’s approach will investigate these and other potential environmental factors. Although he had initially set a September deadline to determine autism’s causes, he now believes that his department will provide at least partial answers by that time.

Kennedy’s plan includes issuing grants to universities and researchers, encouraging them to “follow the science, no matter what it says.” This initiative follows a history of cuts to science and health research funding under the Trump administration, which had previously slashed billions of dollars in grants to universities.

To conduct this research, the CDC gathered autism data from 14 states and Puerto Rico in 2022, focusing on 8-year-olds as most autism diagnoses occur by this age. The CDC’s most recent estimate of 1 in 31 children diagnosed with autism is considered the gold standard by many experts due to its rigorous methodology.

Despite Kennedy’s focus on environmental factors, other researchers argue that the increase in autism diagnoses can be attributed to improved awareness and medical advancements. Annette Estes, director of the autism center at the University of Washington, explained, “The reasons for increases in autism diagnosis come down to scientific and health care progress. It’s hard for many people to understand this because the causes of autism are complex.”

The Autism Science Foundation, in response to Kennedy’s comments, emphasized that factors like better access to services and reduced stigma surrounding autism spectrum disorders are key contributors to the rise in autism prevalence. Dr. Alycia Halladay, the foundation’s Chief Science Officer, noted, “This report is the most convincing evidence yet that changes in factors like access to services and de-stigmatization of autism spectrum disorders are leading to the increases in prevalence.”

As the debate over autism’s causes continues, Kennedy’s initiative promises to shed light on this complex issue, offering a deeper understanding of the environmental factors that may be contributing to the increasing number of diagnoses.

Source: AP News – Health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says US autism cases are climbing at an ‘alarming rate’

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Iron deficiency is one of the world’s leading causes of disability, yet experts remain divided on when it becomes a serious issue and the best approach to treating it.

When Megan Ryan, a single mother from upstate New York, first experienced constant fatigue, she attributed it to the challenges of balancing full-time work and raising a three-year-old. She dismissed her exhaustion as just part of motherhood—until a routine medical check-up in June 2023 revealed that she had iron deficiency anemia.

Looking back, there were other warning signs: breathlessness during routine hikes and an unusual craving for ice—an indicator of pica, a common symptom of iron deficiency.

Ryan’s experience reflects a broader global health issue. Iron deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency worldwide, affecting one in three people. The condition is particularly prevalent among children and women of reproductive age, including pregnant women.

Iron is essential for red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body. Without enough of it, various health problems can arise:

• Pregnant Women: Increased risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and impaired fetal brain development.
• Infants & Toddlers: Long-term developmental delays, behavioral issues, and reduced cognitive abilities.
• Adults: Fatigue, weakness, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications.

“It’s a major global problem,” says Michael Zimmermann, a professor of human nutrition at the University of Oxford. “It’s very common, it’s not going away fast, and it’s associated with significant disability.”

Some populations are more susceptible to iron deficiency than others:

• Women: Menstruation and pregnancy increase vulnerability. One study found that 46% of UK women had anemia at some point during pregnancy.
• Athletes: Endurance sports increase iron needs, putting athletes at higher risk.
• Vegetarians & Vegans: Plant-based diets often contain less bioavailable iron than meat-based diets.
• Frequent Blood Donors: Repeated donations can deplete iron levels.
• Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions: Kidney disease and celiac disease can reduce iron absorption.

Children are especially vulnerable due to rapid growth. “Infancy is the most rapid period of growth in our entire lifespan,” explains Mark Corkins of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “Without enough iron, the body struggles to produce the red blood cells necessary for proper oxygen delivery.”

Studies in Africa show that up to 70% of babies aged 6–12 months suffer from iron-deficiency anemia. Even in wealthier nations, the condition persists—affecting up to 4% of toddlers in the U.S.

Iron deficiency and anemia are not the same thing, though they are closely related.

• Iron Deficiency: Occurs when the body lacks adequate iron stores but may not yet impact red blood cell production.
• Iron-Deficiency Anemia: The stage where iron levels are so low that they affect hemoglobin levels, leading to fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.

Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests measuring ferritin (a protein that stores iron) and hemoglobin levels.

The role of iron supplements is a topic of ongoing debate. While supplementation is often recommended for those with diagnosed deficiency, some researchers question its necessity for individuals without symptoms.

A review co-authored by clinical hematologist Sant-Rayn Pasricha found that while iron supplementation improved fatigue in women who reported feeling exhausted, it had no effect on women with iron deficiency who did not feel fatigued.

“For those who are clinically unwell with iron deficiency, treatment is beneficial,” says Pasricha. “But for those without symptoms, it’s unclear if supplementation improves health.”

This uncertainty is particularly relevant for children. One large study in Bangladesh found that iron supplements improved iron levels but did not enhance neurodevelopment. Another study revealed that infants who received high-iron formula performed worse on cognitive tests years later compared to those on low-iron formula.

Some experts argue that supplementing iron unnecessarily could have downsides, including digestive issues and altered gut microbiomes. Zimmermann warns that excessive iron supplementation in infants could encourage harmful bacterial growth, such as E. coli.

Given these risks, many experts advise consulting a doctor before starting iron supplements.

A balanced diet remains the best way to maintain adequate iron levels.

• Heme Iron (Easily Absorbed): Found in red meat, liver, poultry, and fish.
• Non-Heme Iron (Less Absorbed): Present in beans, lentils, nuts, and iron-fortified cereals.
• Vitamin C Boosts Absorption: Pairing iron-rich foods with sources of vitamin C (such as citrus fruits or bell peppers) enhances absorption.

In the U.S., the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants aged 6–12 months consume 11 mg of iron daily, while toddlers need 7 mg per day. Many pediatricians advocate for breastfed babies to receive iron drops starting at four months, as breastmilk alone does not provide sufficient iron. However, some researchers question this approach, citing potential drawbacks.

For those diagnosed with iron deficiency, recovery takes time. Megan Ryan, for instance, required iron infusions every two weeks for five months before her energy levels improved.

“It wasn’t a quick fix,” she says, “but I finally started feeling normal again.”

While iron deficiency remains a significant global challenge, ongoing research aims to clarify when and how supplementation should be used—ensuring that people receive the right treatment at the right time.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding any concerns about your health or nutrition.

Source

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As children head back to school, there are simple but impactful ways you can support their health, happiness, and academic success. Every school day matters—not just for learning but also for physical, social, and emotional development. Here are five essential tips to help your child thrive this school year.

1. Prioritize Sleep, Exercise, and Nutrition

A solid foundation of sleep, exercise, and nutrition is crucial for your child’s success in school and social life. Start by ensuring they:

• Eat balanced meals, including a nutritious breakfast. Children who eat well perform better academically. Check if your school offers free or reduced-price meals.
• Stay hydrated with water throughout the day.
• Get plenty of physical activity and enough sleep. Lack of sleep affects memory, concentration, creativity, and overall learning.

2. Stay Current on Checkups and Vaccines

Schedule a well-child checkup before school starts, especially if your child hasn’t had one in the past year. This is also a good time to:

• Get a sports physical if your child will participate in school sports.
• Update any school medical emergency forms or treatment plans if your child takes medication at school.

Ensure your child is up to date on their vaccinations, including the annual flu shot and any updated vaccines. Declining vaccination rates have led to outbreaks of diseases like measles and polio. Staying on schedule with immunizations protects your child and their classmates from severe illnesses.

If your child has lost health insurance through Medicaid or CHIP, seek assistance to restore coverage. Having insurance ensures your child gets the care they need to stay healthy and in school.

3. Support Your Child’s Mental Health

The past few years have been challenging for many kids and teens. Encourage your child to share their feelings openly, and let them know they can talk to you without judgment. To support their mental health:

• Watch for signs of anxiety, depression, or changes in behavior.
• Prioritize family routines like shared meals and walks, which can open the door to meaningful conversations.
• Safely store firearms, as access to unsecured guns increases the risk of suicide.

If you’re unsure how to help or need guidance, talk to your pediatrician. Schools may also have mental health resources available.

4. Address Racism, Bullying, and Kindness

Some children avoid school due to bullying, discrimination, or racism. Have open conversations with your child about:

• Reporting bullying or discrimination to a trusted adult.
• The importance of treating everyone with respect.
• How acts of kindness can reduce stress and positively impact everyone’s well-being.

5. Promote Mindful Media Use

A new school year is a perfect opportunity to establish or revisit your family’s media plan. Help your child balance screen time with sleep, physical activity, and other healthy habits. Encourage:

• High-quality programs and games.
• Critical thinking about online information to avoid false or harmful content.

Also, discuss your child’s social media habits and how they can use these platforms responsibly.

Remember

Your child’s health is key to their success in school. If you have questions about their well-being, contact your pediatrician or the school nurse. These professionals can guide you in keeping your child healthy and ready to learn every day.

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