The Brief Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the HHS claimed Monday autism is linked to the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy. Autism rates are rising, but that's largely about an expanded definition, more awareness and more screening. The Trump administration on Monday released a report claiming autism is linked to the use of the painkiller Tylenol, or acetaminophen, during pregnancy. Trump autism announcementThe backstory:Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promised earlier this year to determine the cause of autism by September. Trump has also suggested that vaccines could be to blame for autism rates, and repeated certain claims Monday.