The World Health Organisation, has reaffirmed that there is no conclusive scientific evidence linking the use of paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy to autism in children.
The UN health agency made the clarification on Wednesday through a statement on its official website, amid renewed debates following comments from political leaders in the United States.
“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,” WHO said.
It advised expectant mothers to continue following the recommendations of qualified health workers when using any medication.
“Any medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, and in line with advice from health professionals,” the organisation stated.
WHO also used the opportunity to restate that vaccines do not cause autism, dismissing earlier claims that have fueled misinformation worldwide.
“Original studies suggesting a link were flawed and have been discredited. Since 1999, independent experts advising WHO have repeatedly confirmed that vaccines—including those with thiomersal or aluminium—do not cause autism or other developmental disorders,” it stressed.
According to the global body, autism spectrum disorder affects nearly 62 million people worldwide, yet its exact causes remain unclear and are believed to involve multiple factors.
“Autism and neurodevelopmental disorders are among the priority conditions being discussed at the UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and mental health,” WHO added, pledging continued collaboration with autistic-led groups and other stakeholders to support affected families.
In a related briefing, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic acknowledged that some observational studies had suggested a “possible association” between prenatal exposure to paracetamol and autism but emphasised that such studies lacked controlled scientific design.
“Medical groups have consistently maintained that acetaminophen is among the safest painkillers for pregnant women when taken under medical supervision,” he explained.
The WHO further highlighted that global immunisation programmes, built on decades of rigorous evidence, have saved an estimated 154 million lives in the past 50 years. It warned that altering vaccine schedules without evidence could endanger children and communities by increasing the risk of outbreaks.
“The schedule remains essential for the health and well-being of every child and every community,” the organisation noted.
