Pregnancy use of acetaminophen linked to autism in offspring, according to RFK's report
In a development that has sent shockwaves through the medical community and the stock market, a forthcoming report from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) suggests a possible link between low folate levels and the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy as potential causes of autism.
The HHS report, which is expected to be released this month, is a review of existing data, not a new clinical study. Despite the speculation surrounding its findings, an HHS spokesperson has urged caution, stating that any claims about the report's contents are premature until the final document is made public.
Acetaminophen, known generically as Tylenol, is a common over-the-counter pain relief medication. The report's assertions have prompted a swift response from Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol. A spokeswoman for the company has maintained that their product is safe for pregnant mothers, citing the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists' (ACOG) endorsement of acetaminophen for use during pregnancy.
However, the stock of Kenvue has seen a significant drop following the report's rumoured contents. Within the first half hour of the article's publication, Kenvue's stocks plummeted by more than 12%, and they closed today at a nearly 10% decline.
The report's claims have also sparked concern among policymakers. Representative Kennedy has declared autism to be an epidemic, and is spearheading a study on the condition. Roughly 1 in 31 children in the U.S. have autism spectrum disorder, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, marking an increase from 1 in 150 in 2000.
It's important to note that the report does not suggest that acetaminophen causes autism definitively. The HHS spokesperson emphasised that gold-standard science is being used to understand the unprecedented rise in autism rates in America.
In light of the report, the ACOG reiterated its recommendation for women to consult with their doctor before taking any medication, including acetaminophen. As of now, no specific organisation has committed to identifying a safe and effective alternative to acetaminophen for pain treatment in pregnant women.
The National News Desk reached out to the Department of Health and Human Services for comment on the report, but at the time of writing, no response has been received.
The ongoing debate surrounding the report serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing research into the causes of autism and the need for clear, evidence-based guidance for expectant mothers.
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