Former President Barack Obama has strongly criticized President Donald Trump for his recent assertion that taking Tylenol during pregnancy causes autism in children. During a public address, Trump claimed that certain groups of people who avoid vaccines and pills have no autism, sparking Obama’s rebuke for what he called “undermining public health.” Obama took the opportunity to highlight the potential harm of such statements, particularly to expectant mothers, during a conversation with historian David Olusoga at London’s O2 Arena.
Trump’s remarks, which suggested a link between Tylenol and autism, were met with skepticism from the World Health Organization (WHO). The agency clarified that there is currently “no conclusive scientific evidence” confirming a connection between acetaminophen (the non-branded form of Tylenol) and autism. Despite this, Trump announced plans for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to release new guidance urging doctors to advise patients on the medication.
In his critique, Obama emphasized that Trump’s claims are not only misleading but also damaging to public trust. He argued that the alleged link between Tylenol and autism is repeatedly disproven, and that Trump’s statements create unnecessary anxiety for parents, particularly those with autistic children. Obama pointed out that autism is a spectrum disorder, and the apparent rise in diagnoses is largely due to broader diagnostic criteria, not necessarily an increase in cases.
Tylenol representatives responded to Trump’s comments, stating that the drug is “one of the most studied medications in history” and reaffirming its safety when used as directed. They noted that decades of research, supported by leading medical professionals, have found no credible evidence linking acetaminophen to autism. The company stressed that Tylenol remains a trusted choice for pain relief and fever reduction globally, following recommendations from public health experts.