ISLAMABAD: The World Health Organization on Wednesday emphasized that “there is currently no conclusive scientific evidence confirming a possible link between autism and use of acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) during pregnancy.”
US President Donald Trump on Monday linked autism to childhood vaccine use and the taking of popular pain medication Tylenol by women when pregnant, elevating claims not backed by scientific evidence to the forefront of US health policy.
According to a statement issued by WHO today, nearly 62 million people have autism spectrum disorder globally.
“Although awareness and diagnosis have improved in recent years, the exact causes of autism have not been established, and it is understood there are multiple factors that can be involved,” the organization said.
The statement said that extensive research was done 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, recommending that all women should continue to follow advice of their doctors
“Any medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, and in line with advice from health professionals,” the statement said.
It added that a robust, extensive evidence base exists showing childhood vaccines do not cause autism.
“Large, high-quality studies from many countries have all reached the same conclusion,” it said.
“Original studies suggesting a link were flawed and have been discredited,” it said, adding that independent experts advising WHO have repeatedly confirmed that vaccines do not cause autism or other developmental disorders.
The statement also said that autism and neurodevelopmental disorders were among priority mental health and neurological conditions which would be discussed at the 4th UN High-Level Meeting on noncommunicable diseases and mental health on 25 September.
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