Urgent: RFK Jr. Links Autism to Circumcision, Experts Push Back
UPDATE: Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has sparked controversy by suggesting a possible link between autism and circumcision, reigniting a long-debunked theory that Tylenol may contribute to autism rates. This alarming assertion was made during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, prompting immediate backlash from medical experts.
Kennedy claimed, “There are two studies that show children who are circumcised early have double the rate of autism.” However, experts are quick to challenge his statements. “There is absolutely no studies establishing any causality,” stated Dr. Steven Abelowitz, founder and medical director of Ocean Pediatrics.
The 2025 study from Johns Hopkins Medicine reported a decline in circumcision prevalence, decreasing from 54.1% in 2012 to 49.3% in 2022. Yet, Kennedy’s references to studies lack proper citation, raising questions about the validity of his claims.
Experts highlight that earlier studies linking circumcision to autism have significant flaws. A 2013 study acknowledged its correlation without establishing causation, suggesting that confounding variables like cultural practices may play a role in autism diagnoses. Dr. Céline Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor, emphasized that circumcision practices are often tied to cultural and religious contexts, which significantly influence autism rates.
Kennedy’s assertions are further complicated by the timing of acetaminophen usage. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infants under 12 weeks should only receive acetaminophen if directed by a pediatrician. Most circumcisions occur early in life, typically within the first week after birth, and are usually performed with local anesthetics.
The National Autistic Society in the UK condemned Kennedy’s statements, asserting they lack rigorous research and could pose risks. “More dangerous anti-science from the US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy,” said Mel Merritt, the head of policy and campaigns at the organization.
In a related context, President Trump recently announced that the Food and Drug Administration believes acetaminophen use during pregnancy may increase autism risk, a claim that has drawn skepticism from medical professionals. Dr. Steven J. Fleischman, President of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, called such suggestions “irresponsible.”
Amidst this controversy, Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, assured the public that “independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism.”
The medical community continues to reject the unsubstantiated claims linking circumcision and autism, emphasizing the need for credible research rather than sensational assertions. As the debate unfolds, the implications of these statements could have significant consequences for public health messaging and parental decisions regarding circumcision and medication use.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as experts and officials respond to Kennedy’s claims.
