Robust privacy safeguards needed for autism data collection

The plan to amass comprehensive medical data on a massive scale for Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s autism study raises significant privacy concerns. Compiling private health records from federal agencies, insurers, and commercial databases without robust consent protocols is an overreach that threatens patient confidentiality. While research is crucial, the proposed data collection appears excessive and lacks transparency on how the information will be safeguarded. Robust governance and ethical oversight are imperative to prevent misuse of this sensitive data. The stated aims do not justify jeopardizing public trust through invasive data mining practices. Autism research should proceed through ethical means that respect individual privacy rights. A measured approach balancing scientific inquiry with civil liberties is needed.