RFK Jr. May Renew Tylenol Safety Debate With Autism Report
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is set to release a report this month that may suggest that taking Tylenol during pregnancy could cause autism, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Following the story, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary said that the HHS report has yet to be finalized: “We’re still in our discussions.”
In the U.S., autism affects about 1 in 31 children aged 8 years old, according to recent CDC data, with an increase from 1 in 36 in 2020, attributed in part to increased screenings and better diagnoses.
AUTISM REPORT
Finding the cause of autism has long been one of RFK Jr.’s priorities. He has previously linked autism to vaccines, but numerous studies have proven that to be false.
An analysis published by Harvard in August – which surveyed data from over 40 studies with 100,000 participants total – found an association between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and higher risk of autism and ADHD in the child. But their research did not prove causation, just correlation.
A separate study out of Sweden in 2024 – which surveyed more than two million children – found no link between prenatal Tylenol usage and autism.
Instead, they found that genetics and environment may be factors.
The Autism Science Foundation put out a statement, saying, "Any association between acetaminophen and autism is based on limited, conflicting, and inconsistent science and is premature given the current science." The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists still says that Tylenol is safe to use during pregnancy – especially for fevers, as those can be harmful to babies in the womb – but recommends pregnant people consult with their doctors first before taking any medication.
TRUMP AND VACCINES
The news comes after RFK Jr. was grilled by both Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill Thursday over his vaccine policies and the ongoing turmoil at the CDC. Last week, Florida also moved to eliminate all vaccine mandates — including for schoolchildren.
President Trump poured cold water on Florida’s plan Friday, saying vaccines “pure and simple work” and warning: “You have to be very careful when you say that some people don't have to be vaccinated... I think those vaccines should be used, otherwise some people are going to catch it and they endanger other people.”