Trump Claims to Have Found a Cure for Autism; Experts Baffled

2025-09-22 18:00:27.972

President Trump's unexpected announcement that an answer to autism has been found has ignited controversy within the scientific community. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s earlier promise to determine the cause of autism by September is also highlighted, a claim that has baffled experts who cite decades of research indicating a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. The article clarifies that autism is not a disease but a complex developmental condition (autism spectrum disorder) with varying impacts on individuals. The increase in autism diagnoses over the decades is attributed to broader diagnostic criteria, improved screening, and increased parental awareness. While genetics play a significant role, with hundreds of associated genes identified, environmental factors such as paternal age, preterm birth, and maternal health issues during pregnancy can also contribute. The article debunks the long-discredited link between vaccines and autism. A potential link between Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy and autism is discussed, acknowledging conflicting research findings. The article concludes by emphasizing that while some studies suggest a potential association between Tylenol use in pregnancy and autism, many others have not found a connection, and untreated fevers during pregnancy pose more significant risks.