State officials from the California Department of Public Health, the Office of the Surgeon General, and the Department of Developmental Services have issued a joint statement addressing recent claims about acetaminophen use during pregnancy.
The statement emphasizes the need for Americans to rely on medical advice that is based on rigorous scientific review. “Americans deserve clear medical guidance that is the result of a rigorous scientific process. We urge everyone to seek out credible medical guidance to inform their health care choices and to have conversations with their licensed health care providers,” state officials said.
Officials expressed concern over what they describe as an increase in oversimplified or false claims from federal sources. They cited conclusions from the Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (SDBP), which states that decades of research indicate autism has complex causes involving both genetic and environmental factors, and there is no strong evidence linking proper use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) during pregnancy to harmful effects on fetal development. The statement also referenced a separate news release by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), which criticized current federal administration opinions as “irresponsible.”
“The California Department of Public Health will continue to work with partners in health care and science to share guidance that people can trust. California is committed to providing up-to-date, evidence-based information and resources to support healthy pregnancies and the workforce and families supporting individuals with autism,” according to the joint statement.
