Second MAHA Report Emphasizes Chronic Disease, Tilts at Vaccine Reform

The Second MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) Report highlights the high prevalence of chronic disease in the U.S., with 76.4% of Americans reportedly suffering from chronic conditions compared to 11% in the early 1960s1.

The report presses for more rigorous vaccine clinical trials, including the use of true placebo controls, larger study groups, and longer follow-up, to enhance the evaluation of vaccine safety and potential links to chronic disease1.

A significant focus is placed on reforming the childhood vaccine schedule and addressing concerns about vaccine injuries, echoing longstanding advocacy points from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr5.

The report links the rise in chronic diseases—such as obesity and diabetes—to processed food consumption and the over-prescription of both medications and vaccines, recommending large-scale reforms in food, health, and education systems to reverse these trends25.

Specific policy proposals include promoting full-fat dairy in federal programs, restricting junk food from SNAP benefits, incentivizing breastfeeding, and supporting regenerative agriculture25.

The MAHA Commission's new directives also call for public health campaigns, reinstating the Presidential Fitness Test, and reviewing prescription practices for psychiatric and behavioral medications in children5.

The report has sparked controversy and unified responses from diverse stakeholders, including calls from traditional science organizations to maintain vaccine access and from advocacy groups urging stricter food and chemical regulations4.

Despite its ambitious scope, some reviewers have criticized the report for lack of specificity on implementation and funding, labeling it more aspirational than transformational45.

Sources:

1. https://www.biospace.com/policy/second-maha-report-emphasizes-chronic-disease-tilts-at-vaccine-reform

2. https://www.hcinnovationgroup.com/policy-value-based-care/article/55315463/hhs-releases-maha-report-on-chronic-diseases-in-children

4. https://www.kbzk.com/health/rfks-maha-report-on-youth-health-angers-scientists-and-skeptics-alike

5. https://www.statnews.com/2025/09/09/rfk-maha-report-make-our-children-healthy-again-strategy/