Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claims that Tylenol can double the autism risk in circumcised children

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Repeated claims linking Acetaminophen (Tylenol) to autism in children, suggesting that pain relief after circumcision doubles the autism risk. The Secretary of Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., speaks as President Donald Trump is holding a Cabinet meeting in the White House, Thursday, October 9, 2025 in Washington. From left are the education secretary Linda McMahon, Kennedy, Doug Burgum, Home Affairs Minister Marco Rubio, Foreign Minister Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) (AP) At a cabinet meeting on Thursday (October 9), Robert F. Kennedy, Secretary of Health and Human Services, repeat the claims that connect the use of acetaminophen, widely known by his brand name Tylenol. He specifically suggested a link between circumcision-related pain relief and increased autism risk. “There are two studies that show that children who are circumcised early have double the rate of autism,” Kennedy said. “It’s very likely because they get Tylenol.” “So, you know, none of this … is positive, but all things are things we need to pay attention to.” Trump supports the investigation into possible causes during the hour -long cabinet meeting, President Donald Trump responded to Kennedy’s comments, emphasizing the importance of investigating all possible contributors to autism. “The US should pay attention to all possible causes of autism,” Trump said, reflecting the administration’s ongoing concerns about rising autism figures in the country. Administration claims about acetaminophen These remarks follow a press information last month, when the administration proposed a connection between acetaminophen’s use during pregnancy and autism. Trump said at the time: “Taking Tylenol is not good. I will say that. It’s not good. Women should avoid acetaminophen throughout the pregnancy. It is very dangerous for the woman’s health.” Trump added that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would begin to inform the doctors that acetaminofen could be ‘associated’ with an increased risk of autism, although no medical evidence was provided to support the claim.