RFK Jr.’s Controversial Claims on Circumcision and Autism
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine activist and U.S. presidential candidate, recently claimed that circumcision may contribute to autism. Citing a few studies, Kennedy suggested a link between the procedure and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, medical experts and the studies themselves contradict his interpretation.
What the Studies Actually Say
Kennedy often references a 2016 Danish study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine that found a correlation between circumcision before age 5 and a slightly higher ASD diagnosis in boys. But the study’s authors explicitly stated:
- Correlation ≠ causation – The research did not prove circumcision causes autism.
- Confounding factors – Boys with undiagnosed developmental differences might have experienced more stress during the procedure.
Another frequently cited 2015 study in Frontiers in Pediatrics explored how early-life pain could affect neurodevelopment. However, it did not single out circumcision as a definitive cause of autism. Instead, it broadly examined neonatal stressors, including surgeries and vaccinations.
Experts Weigh In: No Scientific Link
Leading medical organizations and researchers reject Kennedy’s claims:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): No evidence links circumcision to autism.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Circumcision has no association with neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Dr. Paul Offit (CHOP): Calls the claims “scientifically unfounded,” emphasizing autism’s genetic and environmental origins.
Why Misinformation Matters
Kennedy’s misleading statements have real-world consequences:
- Spreads medical misinformation, undermining trust in science.
- Distracts from real autism research, which focuses on genetics and prenatal factors.
- Stigmatizes cultural/religious practices like circumcision without basis.
The Bottom Line
Kennedy has a history of misrepresenting science to fit his agenda, from vaccines to now circumcision. The studies he cites do not support his claims—a fact reinforced by the broader scientific community.
For accurate health information, rely on peer-reviewed research and trusted medical experts—not sensationalized theories.
Stay informed with fact-checked health news. Always verify bold claims before sharing.
