ISTANBUL

The new US health secretary announced plans to examine whether the schedule of childhood vaccinations and the use of anti-depression drugs are potential contributors to increasing rates of chronic illnesses.

"We will convene representatives of all viewpoints to study the causes for the drastic rise in chronic disease," Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told a group of Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) workers Tuesday, ABC News reported.

"Some of the possible factors we will investigate were formally taboo or insufficiently scrutinized," he added.

He listed the potential contributors to investigate, such as the schedule of childhood vaccinations, the use of SSRI -- anti-depression and anxiety drugs -- electromagnetic radiation, herbicides and pesticides, ultra-processed foods, artificial food, allergies, microplastics and long-lasting chemicals used in the production of non-stick pans.

Kennedy has faced criticism for his controversial stances on vaccines and public health policies.

But pledged to put the health of Americans "back on track" during his confirmation hearing last month.

Kennedy said he was not "anti-vaccine" when a protester shouted, "He lies!"

"I want to make sure the committee is clear about a few things. News reports have claimed that I am anti-vaccine or anti-industry. Well, I am neither; I am pro-safety,” said Kennedy.

Asked about his past statements: "Are you lying to Congress today when you say you are pro-vaccine or did you lie on all those podcasts?"

"I support the measles vaccine. I support the polio vaccine. I will do nothing as HHS secretary that makes it difficult or discourages people from taking either of those vaccines," Kennedy said.