CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- On Monday, President Donald Trump made announcements regarding a potential cause of autism.
President Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy claimed that there is a link between Tylenol and autism.
The President said that taking it during pregnancy increases the likelihood of their children developing it.
This is a claim that numerous health organizations argue has not been supported by research.
Dr. Alycia Halladay of the Autism Science Foundation said, “The risks of having a fever unmitigated untreated during either pregnancy or early childhood are much stronger than any hypothetical link that was shown in a couple of studies.”
A local speech language pathologist, Jenna Hartle, explained how each child on the spectrum is unique as she helps develop essential communication skills.
Hartle said, “I would say every case is different. You walk in and you think you know what you’re getting into and how the kiddo is going to react to you. Every kiddo is different.”
She says this announcement is causing confusion.
Hartle said, “Definitely mixed emotions. Families that I work with right now say they are scared and confused and many are feeling blamed and guilty. Others are frustrated because headlines are oversimplifying complicated science.”
She says that in this time of confusion, she encourages families to seek reliable sources of information.
Hartle said, “I always encourage families to talk with their pediatrician about anything medical related rather than relying on the headlines… Focusing energy that can help like early diagnosis, timely access to speech and behavioral therapy is super important, and supporting your child’s strengths.”
President Trump also touted an experiential treatment for autism called leucovorin, which numerous health agencies are also questioning.
