U.S. President Donald Trump revealed on Saturday that his administration will deliver an important update on autism this Monday, sparking speculation about new health findings. Speaking at a dinner hosted by the conservative American Cornerstone Institute, Trump described it as “one of the most important things that we will do,” but declined to share details.
The Wall Street Journal recently reported that Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is preparing to announce potential risks tied to Tylenol, a popular pain reliever from Kenvue. According to the report, Kennedy may claim that using Tylenol during pregnancy could be linked to autism, a position that contradicts existing medical guidelines which deem the drug safe.
Autism diagnoses in the United States have climbed dramatically in recent decades, fueling ongoing debate. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that autism prevalence among 8-year-olds reached 1 in 36 in 2020 (2.77%), compared with 2.27% in 2018 and just 0.66% in 2000. Kennedy has repeatedly stated that America is facing an “autism epidemic” driven by environmental toxins, though most scientists argue the condition likely stems from a mix of genetics and environmental factors.
In addition to the autism update, Trump teased another policy rollout. He announced that Mehmet Oz, head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, will unveil a “most favored nation” drug pricing model. This initiative aims to lower U.S. prescription drug costs by matching the lowest prices paid by other Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. Trump emphasized that tariffs could be used against nations resisting fair pricing, calling Dr. Oz “a smart, tough guy” who could drive the plan forward.