‘So much fringe science’: RFK Jr’s advisers are pushing an extreme makeover in autism research
Experts warn the 336-page plan from RFK Jr’s advisers deflects federal dollars into unreliable alternative therapies Autism groups and researchers have reacted with alarm to a federal research roadmap drawn up by advisers handpicked by the US health secretary, Robert F Kennedy Jr, fearing it will promote unproven fringe therapies at the expense of promising genetic research. A slew of scientific…
RFK Jr.'s advisers have unveiled a 336-page plan to direct federal autism research funds, sparking concern among experts and autism groups. The plan, overseen by the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., proposes almost doubling federal spending on autism services to $760 million annually over three years.
However, the plan has been criticized for diverting funds towards unproven alternative therapies and potentially harmful treatments. Many scientists and autism advocates argue that the plan gives little credence to promising genetic research and instead promotes fringe science, such as the use of leucovorin, a derivative of vitamin B9, which has limited evidence supporting its benefits for autism.
Helen Tager-Flusberg, an emeritus professor at Boston University, expressed concern, stating, "So much of the plan is fringe science that is absolutely not ready for prime time." The plan's emphasis on alternative living models, like farmstead or campus-based communities, has also raised alarms, as it could potentially revive forms of institutional confinement.
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