Mondays have been relatively quiet lately. Unfortunately, not so much today.
The big news isn’t a surprise exactly, word has leaked out here and there. But I was so shocked by today’s press conference that I had to pause it to walk around my house. We’re well beyond a “cite your sources” sort of situation, but I’ve got them anyway.
Today is one of those days where I’m not sure exactly how we’re supposed to talk about evidence based medicine.
Anyway…
Today the President and the Administration’s top health officials made a series of statements (I’m not sure if I can recommend watching this video) which have substantial implications for how U.S. health agencies will approach autism. Here is the announcement from HHS and coverage from NY Times, Nature, and Stat.
Aside from the anti-acetaminophen headline, today’s event included anti-vaccine talking points. The anti-vax angle was less prevalent in the immediate next steps (see below), but it’s worth noting that HHS’s autism report is not out yet. Rumor has it it’s coming in about a week.
The FDA will be releasing guidance and changing the safety information on acetaminophen to “reflect evidence suggesting that the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women may be associated with an increased risk of neurological conditions such as autism and ADHD in children”.
The FDA today initiated the approval of leucovorin calcium tablets for patients with cerebral folate deficiency and autistic symptoms.
The CDC updated its “Medicine and Pregnancy” page to include some text about acetaminophen use. Last week the CDC announced its intention fund a study into the link between vaccines and autism.
There is some clarity today about the new $100,000 fee for H1-B visas. Contrary to statements made by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, it appears to be a one-time fee not annual. It also applies only to new applicants, not current visa holders.
Science has some of the deepest reporting I’ve seen about what has been occurring within the NSF.
Previously, when government shutdowns were eminent, federal agencies have published their contingency plans. This has largely not happened this time around.
I took that picture at Trader Joes with my Camp Snap.