WHO: No Evidence Linking Paracetamol Use in Pregnancy to Autism -

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Ibironke Mulikat

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has refuted claims suggesting that the use of paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy increases the risk of autism in children.

In a statement published on its website on Wednesday, WHO said extensive research conducted over the past decade, including large-scale studies found no consistent evidence of such an association.

“Extensive research has been undertaken over the past decade, including large-scale studies, looking into links between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism. At this time, no consistent association has been established,” the health body said.

The organisation, however, advised pregnant women to only take medication under the guidance of qualified health professionals, especially during the first trimester when extra caution is required.

WHO also reiterated that vaccines do not cause autism. It stressed that multiple high-quality studies conducted across different countries have confirmed the safety of childhood vaccines, including those containing thiomersal or aluminium, adding that long-standing claims of a link between vaccines and autism have been discredited.

According to WHO, an estimated 62 million people globally about one in every 127 live with autism spectrum disorder, a neurodevelopmental condition influenced by multiple factors whose exact causes remain unclear.

The organisation highlighted that immunisation schedules, developed with global expert input, have saved at least 154 million lives over the past 50 years and continue to protect children, adolescents and adults against more than 30 infectious diseases.

It added that autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders are among the key issues being discussed at the fourth UN High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health taking place on Thursday.

“As a global community, we need to do more to understand the causes of autism and how best to care for and support autistic people and their families. WHO stands with people who are living with autism and their families, a dignified community entitled to evidence-based considerations free of stigma,” the organisation said.