RFK Jr. Claims Circumcision and Tylenol Linked to Autism Despite No Evidence

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. intensified his warnings about Tylenol by linking it to circumcision and autism during an October 9th Cabinet meeting with Donald Trump.

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“There are two studies that show children who are circumcised early have double the rate of autism,” Kennedy said. “It’s highly likely because they’re given Tylenol.”

The comments reignited backlash after Kennedy and Trump previously urged pregnant women to avoid Tylenol, citing unproven claims that its ingredient acetaminophen may raise autism risk. Tylenol maker Kenvue said existing research shows “no causal link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and fetal developmental issues.”

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists continues to recommend acetaminophen as safe for pregnancy when used properly. Still, Trump told the room, “I would say don’t take Tylenol if you’re pregnant. And when the baby is born, don’t give it Tylenol.”

Kennedy admitted the research is not definitive but insisted the connection is too strong to dismiss. “It’s not dispositive that it causes autism,” he said. “It’s so suggestive that anybody who takes the stuff during pregnancy is irresponsible.”