Barack Obama Responds to Donald Trump’s Claims on Tylenol During Pregnancy
Former President Barack Obama recently addressed comments made by Donald Trump regarding the use of Tylenol during pregnancy, and the supposed link to an increased risk of autism. On Monday, September 22nd, Trump controversially stated that women should avoid using Tylenol unless medically necessary while pregnant.
Despite Trump’s assertion, the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to emphasize that there’s no definitive scientific evidence connecting the use of acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, to autism. Trump went so far as to advise expecting mothers to “tough it out” when considering this common pain reliever.
The WHO further elaborated, pointing out that approximately 62 million individuals globally, or about 1 in 127 people, are on the autism spectrum. They highlighted the increasing rates of awareness and diagnosis in recent years but conceded that the exact causes of autism remain elusive, likely influenced by a multitude of factors.
Obama Addresses the Public in London
In a London meeting with historian David Olusoga, Obama responded to Trump’s comments about Tylenol’s alleged risks. He expressed his concerns clearly: “We have the spectacle of my successor in the Oval Office making broad claims about certain drugs and autism that have been continuously disproved.”
Obama highlighted the repercussions of such statements, pointing out the potential harm to public health and the undue anxiety it could cause pregnant women and parents of children with autism. He further explained that the autism spectrum has expanded its criteria over the years, allowing more people to access necessary services and support.
Obama firmly stated, “All of that is violence against the truth,” emphasizing the damage misleading statements can cause.
Tylenol’s Response to the Controversy
Tylenol also issued a statement in response to Trump’s remarks, emphasizing its extensive history of safety and study. The company described acetaminophen as “one of the most studied medications in history,” deemed safe for use by expecting mothers, infants, and children when used according to medical guidance.
They underscored, “The facts remain unchanged: over a decade of rigorous research, endorsed by leading medical professionals, confirm there is no credible evidence linking acetaminophen to autism.” Tylenol is widely recognized worldwide for pain relief and fever reduction, recommended by public health experts and medical professionals alike.
Acknowledging the risks associated with untreated high fevers and pain during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, Tylenol advised consulting with healthcare providers. They emphasized their commitment to “science as the core of how we provide care” as unwavering.
