RFK Jr. Claims Circumcision May Be Linked to Autism: What Experts Are Saying

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently suggested a connection between autism and circumcision, reigniting debate among medical experts. He claimed during a Cabinet meeting that studies show circumcised boys have twice the rate of autism. His comments raised eyebrows, especially as he also linked these findings to the use of Tylenol.

Circumcision, which involves removing the foreskin from the penis, is common in various cultures and religions. Interestingly, a 2025 study from Johns Hopkins Medicine revealed that circumcision rates in the U.S. dropped nearly 5% from 2012 to 2022.

Kennedy did not reference specific studies to back his claims, but some research does discuss a potential link between circumcision and autism. A 2013 study across eight countries and a 2015 Danish study suggested such a connection. However, these studies faced criticism. Dr. Céline Gounder, a medical contributor to CBS News, pointed out that correlation does not mean causation. She explained how other factors, including cultural practices, impact both circumcision and autism rates.

For instance, early studies once linked coffee consumption to heart disease. Later, experts realized that smoking was the real risk. In the same way, circumcision may be associated with more frequent hospital visits, thereby increasing autism diagnoses due to heightened healthcare interactions.

The 2015 study indicated a higher autism risk in boys circumcised under five. However, this connection dissipated with age, suggesting that the observed correlation might relate more to socioeconomic status than the procedure itself.

Dr. Steven Abelowitz, a pediatric expert, emphasized that there’s no solid evidence linking circumcision or Tylenol use to autism. He warned against misusing observational data to draw firm conclusions. He explained that most circumcisions occur shortly after birth and do not typically involve Tylenol, countering Kennedy’s assertions.

Kennedy’s comments have reached international audiences, with the UK’s National Autistic Society publicly criticizing them. They labeled the claims as “dangerous anti-science” that could mislead the public and put lives at risk.

Furthermore, President Trump suggested a link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism last month, but no new evidence supported this claim. Experts, including Dr. Steven J. Fleischman, President of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, expressed concern over the confusion and fear such statements might cause pregnant individuals.

In summary, while discussions about circumcision and autism continue, the consensus among specialists is clear: no credible evidence supports the claims being made. The emphasis remains on understanding autism through well-established research rather than speculative theories.

Source link

Autism