The Unprecedented Rise of Scientists Fact-Checking the Feds
Scientists and physician-researchers are increasingly stepping in to fact-check federal health claims amid growing public misinformation and declining trust in U.S. health agencies. A recent review led by Dr. Asma Khalil found no significant link between prenatal acetaminophen use and autism, countering a claim made by former President Trump. This movement reflects broader concerns about scientific integrity and public confidence in health institutions.
- ▪Dr. Asma Khalil led a review of 43 studies finding no clinically important link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism.
- ▪Public trust in U.S. health agencies like the CDC, FDA, and NIH has declined significantly since 2024, with fewer than half of Americans trusting the CDC even a fair amount.
- ▪The Bayh-Dole Act of 1980 allowed scientists to profit from federally funded research, contributing to concerns about conflicts of interest in science.
- ▪Medical historian Howard Markel noted that scientists are now compelled to speak out more due to the spread of health misinformation.
- ▪Some scientists are using social media, fast-tracking studies, or even running for office to defend scientific integrity and public understanding.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Asma Khalil, MD, was 3700 miles from Washington, DC, when her patients at a London hospital began asking questions about a White House press conference.Days earlier, on September 22, President Donald Trump had stood beside Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr and proclaimed that using acetaminophen during pregnancy is associated with a “very increased” risk for autism.“Don’t take Tylenol,” the president implored.The news swiftly spread around the globe, prompting frightened moms-to-be to let their pain and fever go untreated.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Medscape.
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