RFK Jr. Insists He’s ‘Not Telling People That They Should Do Anything That I Do’ Regarding Health

The United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, RFK Jr., doesn’t claim to be the shining example of good health in the country.

In an interview with The Atlantic’s Michael Scherer, published on Sunday, November 23, the politician, 71, was questioned about his use of nicotine and tanning beds.

“He regularly pulls Zyn nicotine pouches from his shirt pocket or desk drawers to tuck between his lower lip and gum,” Scherer wrote. “When I asked him to square his nicotine habit and the time he spends tanning with the federal health advisories against both, he shifted in his chair.”

In the interview, the environmental lawyer told Scherer, “I’m not telling people that they should do anything that I do. I just say ‘Get in shape.’ ”

According to the U.S Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) website, “UV radiation in tanning devices poses serious health risks.”

The website lists skin cancer, skin burns, premature skin aging, and eye damage, all as potential side effects to “exposure to UV radiation, whether from the sun or indoor tanning beds.”

As far as nicotine pouches go, the FDA explains, “While these products are authorized to be sold in the United States, it does not mean these products are safe, nor are they ‘FDA approved.’ ”

“All tobacco products are harmful and potentially addictive,” the website states. “Those who do not use tobacco products shouldn’t start.”

Kennedy has faced significant criticism since he was confirmed as the head of the United States Department of Health and Human Services in February. He has made many controversial remarks regarding public health, including that there could be a link between vaccines and autism.

However, earlier this month, the Autism Science Foundation insisted, “The science is clear that vaccines do not cause autism. No environmental factor has been better studied as a potential cause of autism than vaccines.”