- President Trump has warned against acetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy, suggesting a potential link to rising autism rates in children.
- Scientific evidence remains inconclusive, with studies showing both possible associations and conflicting results regarding prenatal acetaminophen exposure.
- Autism diagnoses have increased due to broader definitions and improved detection, while environmental and genetic factors continue to be studied.
President Donald Trump has cautioned pregnant women against the routine use of acetaminophen, the active ingredient in the over-the-counter painkiller Tylenol, citing a potential link to increasing autism rates in U.S. children. He advised that pregnant individuals should take acetaminophen only sparingly and in cases of high fever.In his announcement, Trump also mentioned that health officials would promote the prescription drug leucovorin (folinic acid) as a potential treatment for individuals with autism. The statement was delivered alongside Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, according to USA Today.
Scientific Perspective
Acetaminophen has long been regarded as a safe option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy. Tylenol’s manufacturer, Kenveu, stated that “acetaminophen does not cause autism.” Research on autism spectrum disorder (ASD)—a developmental condition affecting communication, behavior, and social interaction—remains ongoing, with scientists recognizing both genetic and environmental influences as potential contributors.Some studies have suggested that conditions treated with acetaminophen during pregnancy may themselves be associated with a slightly increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. More than two dozen studies worldwide have examined the relationship between frequent prenatal acetaminophen use and risks of autism or ADHD, though findings are inconsistent, and definitive conclusions remain elusive.
Autism Trends in the U.S.
Autism diagnoses in the United States have risen by approximately 300% over the past 20 years, according to the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. This increase partly reflects broader diagnostic criteria that now include conditions such as Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder under the ASD umbrella. Improved access to diagnostic tools and early detection methods has also contributed to the apparent rise in prevalence.
Ongoing Research
Despite public debate, decades of research have not fully determined the causes of autism. Scientists continue to explore how genetics, environmental exposures, and other factors interact to influence neurodevelopmental outcomes. Health authorities emphasize that while links between acetaminophen and autism are being studied, current evidence is not conclusive, and further research is required.
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Source: USA Today
