The World Health Organisation has dismissed claims linking the use of acetaminophen (paracetamol) in pregnancy to autism, insisting that there is no conclusive scientific evidence to support such an association.
In a statement on its website on Wednesday, WHO said that while extensive research over the past decade—including large-scale studies—had examined a possible link, no consistent findings had emerged.
“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 global health body stated.
WHO advised women to continue to use medicines only under the guidance of health professionals, especially during pregnancy, noting that any drug should be taken with caution, particularly in the first trimester.
The organisation also used the opportunity to reiterate that vaccines do not cause autism. It said numerous high-quality studies across many countries had confirmed that childhood vaccines—including those with thiomersal or aluminum—were safe, and that earlier claims suggesting otherwise had long been discredited.
Globally, WHO estimates that nearly 62 million people (about 1 in 127) live with autism spectrum disorder, a condition linked to brain development whose exact causes remain unclear but are believed to be influenced by multiple factors.
The health agency stressed that childhood immunisation schedules, carefully designed with global expert input, have saved at least 154 million lives over the past 50 years and remain critical to protecting children, adolescents, and adults from 30 infectious diseases.
Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders are among priority issues being discussed at the fourth UN High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health taking place on Thursday, September 25.
“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 agency noted.
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