Health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently called for more studies to identify why rates of autism in children have increased. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 31 American children have autism, an increase since 2020. Experts note that autism is not considered a disease, and past studies show that genetics likely play a major role. Additionally, researchers note that the rise in cases could be due to increased awareness. “Changes in factors like access to services and de-stigmatization of (autism spectrum disorders) are leading to the increases,” Dr. Alycia Halladay said. Kennedy also suggested that he aims to have more answers related to the rise in cases by September. (AOL)