RFK Jr.’s Rare Neurological Disorder Explained During Confirmation Hearing

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, lives with spasmodic dysphonia, a condition that affects his vocal cords.

Spasmodic dysphonia is a rare neurological condition that causes involuntary spasms in the muscles controlling the vocal cords, leading to a strained or quivering voice.
Kennedy, diagnosed at age 42, has publicly discussed the challenges of living with the disorder, including its impact on his career and personal confidence.
The condition, which affects approximately 1 in 100,000 people globally, has no cure but can be managed with treatments like Botox injections, voice therapy, and, in rare cases, surgery.
Spasmodic dysphonia is part of the broader dystonia family of movement disorders, which can affect various parts of the body and often strikes individuals in their most-used muscles.
During his confirmation hearing for the Health and Human Services role, Kennedy’s voice drew attention, highlighting the condition and its effects on communication and quality of life.