No link between autism, paracetamol use during pregnancy - WHO

While awareness and diagnosis of autism have improved in recent years, the agency said the exact causes of autism have not been established.

“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,” it said in a statement today.

The organisation advised that women continue to follow the guidance of their doctors and health workers, stressing that any medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy especially in the first trimester.

It also pointed to extensive evidence from multiple countries that showed childhood vaccines do not cause autism.

“Since 1999, independent experts advising WHO have repeatedly confirmed that vaccines—including those with thiomersal or aluminum—do not cause autism or other developmental disorders.”

Globally, nearly 62 million people, or one in 127, have autism spectrum disorder.

Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders are expected to be discussed at the 4th UN High-Level Meeting on prevention and control of non-communicable diseases and mental health on September 25.

The WHO’s statement comes after U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday linked childhood vaccines and the use of Tylenol to rising autism rates, warning pregnant women to limit their use.   

"They are strongly recommending that women limit Tylenol use during pregnancy unless medically necessary," Trump said. "That's, for instance, in cases of extremely high fever."

Despite that, the President acknowledged that his remarks were based more on personal experience than scientific evidence.

He and his health officials said the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would soon update acetaminophen labels with additional information and potential risks.