Robert F. Kennedy Jr. asserts a correlation between circumcision and an increased risk of autism in infants.
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During a recent cabinet meeting, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, made a controversial statement suggesting a potential link between circumcision in infants and an increased likelihood of being diagnosed with autism. This assertion has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about child health and the implications of early medical interventions.
Kennedy pointed to two specific studies that he claimed indicated infants undergoing circumcision had a doubled rate of autism diagnoses. He attributed this risk primarily to the administration of acetaminophen, commonly known by the brand name Tylenol, following the procedure.
His comments prompted a response from the Department of Health and Human Services, which clarified that he was specifically referencing infants and not making a blanket statement about all children.
The autism and circumcision debate
The topic of circumcision has long been a matter of debate among parents and healthcare professionals.
Estimates suggest that approximately 80% of males in the United States undergo this procedure, often due to religious beliefs or the perception that it enhances hygiene and reduces disease risk.
Kennedy’s remarks come amid a broader conversation about autism rates in the United States, which have dramatically increased from one in 1,000 children in the 1980s to one in 31 today. During the cabinet meeting, President Trump expressed the need to investigate all potential causes of autism, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Understanding the research
While Kennedy did not specify the studies he referenced, one significant paper from 2015 analyzed data from 340,000 boys and found that those who were circumcised had a 46% higher likelihood of receiving an autism diagnosis compared to their uncircumcised peers. However, it is crucial to note that this study focused on the relationship between pain management and autism, without mentioning acetaminophen as a factor.
Additionally, Kennedy cited a preprint study conducted in 2025, which has yet to undergo peer review, suggesting that early exposure to acetaminophen could heighten the risk of autism. This adds another layer of complexity to the discourse, as the reliability of non-peer-reviewed studies often comes into question.
Medical community response
The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated that the potential benefits of circumcision often outweigh the associated risks. Moreover, hospitals routinely provide guidance that administering acetaminophen to infants after circumcision is safe to alleviate pain.
Despite the concerns raised by Kennedy, experts emphasize that correlation does not equate to causation. Numerous large-scale studies have found no definitive link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism diagnoses in children. However, the discussion surrounding this topic remains active, with researchers continuing to explore the potential impacts of various medications on fetal development.
The political landscape
Amidst this ongoing debate, President Trump has made headlines for advising pregnant women to avoid acetaminophen unless absolutely necessary. His statement underscored the administration’s commitment to addressing the rising rates of autism, albeit with a cautious approach. Trump reiterated his stance on social media, emphasizing that both pregnant women and young children should limit Tylenol use.
In contrast, Dr. Mehmet Oz, the director of Medicare and Medicaid Services, clarified that while it is essential for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare providers regarding medication, Tylenol may still be a viable option for managing fever or pain. Vice President JD Vance echoed this sentiment, insisting that the decision to take any medication during pregnancy should be individualized and based on medical advice.
Future considerations
Kennedy pointed to two specific studies that he claimed indicated infants undergoing circumcision had a doubled rate of autism diagnoses. He attributed this risk primarily to the administration of acetaminophen, commonly known by the brand name Tylenol, following the procedure. His comments prompted a response from the Department of Health and Human Services, which clarified that he was specifically referencing infants and not making a blanket statement about all children.0
Kennedy pointed to two specific studies that he claimed indicated infants undergoing circumcision had a doubled rate of autism diagnoses. He attributed this risk primarily to the administration of acetaminophen, commonly known by the brand name Tylenol, following the procedure. His comments prompted a response from the Department of Health and Human Services, which clarified that he was specifically referencing infants and not making a blanket statement about all children.1
