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The World Health Organization (WHO) has reiterated that there is no conclusive scientific evidence linking the use of acetaminophen (paracetamol) during pregnancy to autism.
In a statement published on its website on Wednesday, WHO noted that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects around 62 million people worldwide—approximately one in every 127 individuals. While awareness and diagnosis have improved in recent years, the precise causes of autism remain unclear and are believed to involve multiple factors.
According to WHO, extensive research over the past decade, including large-scale studies, has not established any consistent connection between prenatal acetaminophen use and autism. The organization advised expectant mothers to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals, stressing that all medications should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
WHO also emphasized that vaccines are not linked to autism, underscoring that numerous large, high-quality studies across the globe have reached the same conclusion. Original studies suggesting such a link were flawed and discredited. Since 1999, WHO’s independent experts have repeatedly confirmed that vaccines—including those containing thiomersal or aluminium—do not cause autism or other developmental issues.
Highlighting the importance of immunization, WHO explained that national vaccination schedules, designed in collaboration with international experts, have saved an estimated 154 million lives over the last 50 years. These programmes now protect people of all ages from 30 infectious diseases. The organization warned that disrupting or altering vaccine schedules without evidence increases infection risks, especially for infants, the immunocompromised, and those with chronic health conditions.
WHO further stated that autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders will be key topics at the upcoming UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and mental health. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to advancing research into the causes of autism and supporting autistic individuals and their families through partnerships with advocacy groups and autistic-led organizations.
The clarification comes after reports by PUNCH Online on September 23, 2025, citing WHO’s rejection of claims that Tylenol (a common brand of acetaminophen) or vaccines cause autism. The rebuttal followed remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that pregnant women should avoid Tylenol and called for changes to childhood vaccination schedules.
WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic acknowledged that some observational studies had suggested a possible link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and autism, but stressed that such studies are limited in scope and do not establish causation. Medical authorities worldwide continue to regard acetaminophen as one of the safest pain relief options during pregnancy.
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