State health officials in California have responded to recent claims regarding the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy. The statement was issued jointly by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the Office of the Surgeon General, and the Department of Developmental Services.
“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,” the agencies said.
Officials expressed concern about what they described as a spread of oversimplified answers and misinformation from federal sources. They cited findings from the Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, which state that decades of research indicate autism has complex causes involving both genetics and environmental factors, and that there is no strong evidence linking proper acetaminophen use during pregnancy with harmful fetal effects. In addition, they referenced a news release from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which called recent federal opinions “irresponsible.”
The CDPH stated its ongoing commitment to collaborate with healthcare and scientific partners to provide reliable information. “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 statement.
