UPDATE: President Donald Trump is set to announce a controversial connection between autism risk and Tylenol use during pregnancy at a news conference scheduled for 4:00 PM local time today (2000 GMT). This development is stirring significant concern among scientists and medical professionals who emphasize the need for caution.
During a speech at the memorial for right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, Trump claimed, “I think we found an answer to autism, how about that?” This statement comes as the administration, led by health chief Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has been under fire for promoting unverified theories regarding autism’s origins. Kennedy, notorious for his anti-vaccine stance, has promised to unveil findings on autism’s causes by September 2025.
The anticipated focus on acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, has raised eyebrows among health experts. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has previously labeled Tylenol as one of the safest pain relief options for pregnant individuals, warning against long-term use but stressing its relative safety in moderation. Medical authorities are now bracing for the announcement, which could mislead the public regarding acetaminophen’s safety profile.
While the Trump administration appears eager to push these claims, scientists urge caution. A literature review published last month suggested a potential link between Tylenol exposure during pregnancy and autism, but other studies dispute these findings. David Mandell, a psychiatric epidemiologist at the University of Pennsylvania, noted that the risks of taking Tylenol while pregnant may be “lower than the risk of having an uncontrolled infection during pregnancy.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the forthcoming announcement, advising reporters to “tone down the judgment before you even hear what people are going to say.” However, skepticism persists within the scientific community. The Coalition of Autism Scientists criticized the administration’s approach, calling it “highly irresponsible and potentially dangerous” to draw direct links between environmental exposures and autism without robust evidence.
“Secretary Kennedy’s announcement will cause confusion and fear,” the group stated.
Adding to the urgency, reports suggest that the announcement may also include discussions about a potential treatment for autism involving the drug leucovorin, which has shown promise but demands extensive further study. The scientific community remains divided, with many experts cautioning against jumping to conclusions based on preliminary data.
The implications of today’s announcement could resonate deeply with families affected by autism, leading to increased anxiety and misinformation. As the clock ticks down to the press conference, the public is left wondering how the administration’s statements will impact ongoing discussions about autism research and treatment.
Stay tuned for live updates and analysis as this story develops. Experts are urging pregnant individuals to consult their healthcare providers before making any changes to their medication routines.
