Overview

• The MAHA report designates ultra-processed foods, synthetic chemicals, screen-dominated lifestyles and overmedicalization as primary drivers of chronic illness in American children.
• Public health experts note the report omits leading child mortality factors such as gun violence, motor-vehicle collisions and broader social determinants of health.
• Kennedy has consolidated 28 HHS subagencies into 15 and plans to cut 20,000 positions to generate $1.8 billion in annual savings.
• He and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary have set a 2026 target to remove eight petroleum-based artificial food dyes from foods and medications.
• His moves to review vaccine schedules and dismantle the CDC’s chronic disease prevention arm have won support from Sen. Rand Paul while drawing concern from health authorities.