In a recent address to staff, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. outlined his primary goal as the new secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services: to combat the chronic disease epidemic in America. Kennedy expressed his intention to explore various potential factors contributing to the rise in chronic diseases, including areas that have been previously overlooked.
One of the key areas Kennedy plans to investigate is the childhood vaccine schedule, which has been a topic of debate. Despite his controversial past statements linking vaccines to autism, Kennedy emphasized that he is committed to an open-minded approach and encouraged HHS staff to do the same.
Aside from vaccines, Kennedy also highlighted other factors on his investigation list, such as medications for mental health conditions, ultra-processed foods, microplastics, PFAS chemicals, electromagnetic radiation, and pesticides.
While acknowledging the importance of childhood vaccination as settled science and a crucial public health measure, Kennedy criticized the politicization of HHS agencies and the polarized confirmation process. He commended the majority of HHS staff for their competence, ethics, and dedication to their work.
Meanwhile, reports have surfaced regarding significant job cuts at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other federal agencies. The CDC has been working to reverse terminations of federal workers with protections or specialized roles, following recent firings across various agencies.
