The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday reiterated that there is no conclusive scientific evidence linking the use of acetaminophen (commonly known as paracetamol) during pregnancy to autism. In a statement on its website, WHO noted that an estimated 62 million people worldwide — roughly 1 in 127 individuals — live with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a group of conditions associated with brain development. While awareness and diagnosis of autism have improved in recent years, the exact causes remain unclear, with research suggesting multiple contributing factors. 'Over the past decade, extensive research, including large-scale studies, has explored possible connections between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism. So far, no consistent link has been found,' WHO said. The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised women to continue following the guidance of their doctors or health workers, who can assess individual needs and prescribe medicines when necessary. It stressed that all medications should be used with caution during pregnancy—particularly in the first trimester—and strictly under professional supervision. WHO further emphasized that extensive scientific evidence confirms that childhood vaccines do not cause autism. Multiple large-scale studies conducted across different countries have consistently reached the same conclusion. Medical groups have long cited acetaminophen, or paracetamol—the primary ingredient in Tylenol—as among the safest painkillers to take during pregnancy. WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic acknowledged that some observational studies, which are based purely on observations and do not include control or treatment groups, had “suggested a possible association between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen or paracetamol and autism.' It noted that the original studies suggesting a link were deeply flawed and have since been discredited. Since 1999, independent experts advising WHO have repeatedly affirmed that vaccines, including those containing thiomersal or aluminum, are safe and do not cause autism or other developmental disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) noted that childhood vaccine schedules are developed through a rigorous, evidence-based process involving global experts and input from individual countries. According to the health body, the WHO-guided childhood immunization schedule—adopted worldwide—has saved at least 154 million lives in the past 50 years. It stressed that the schedule is vital to the health of every child and community, having evolved with science to protect children, adolescents, and adults from 30 infectious diseases. WHO explained that every vaccine recommendation made by its Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) undergoes a thorough review of evidence and is designed to provide optimal protection at the most effective time. WHO noted, however, that autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders are among the key mental health and neurological issues under discussion at the fourth UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health, held on Thursday, September 25. 'As a global community, we must deepen our understanding of the causes of autism and strengthen efforts to provide appropriate care and support for autistic people and their families,' it stated. The organization warned that delaying, disrupting, or altering immunization schedules without scientific backing significantly increases infection risks, not only for children but also for communities. Infants too young for vaccination, along with people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions, face the highest risks. WHO reaffirmed its commitment to advancing autism-related goals in collaboration with partners, including autistic-led organizations and groups representing people with lived experience. The organization stressed its solidarity with individuals living with autism and their families, describing them as a dignified community deserving of evidence-based care free from stigma. WHO’s clarification that neither the painkiller Tylenol nor vaccines have been proven to cause autism. The statement came in response to remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration suggesting otherwise. Trump had urged pregnant women to 'tough it out' and avoid Tylenol, citing an unverified link to autism, while also calling for sweeping changes to standard childhood vaccination schedules. Medical experts, however, continue to affirm that acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol—the active ingredient in Tylenol—remains among the safest pain relief options during pregnancy. WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic acknowledged that some observational studies had hinted at a potential link between prenatal paracetamol exposure and autism. However, he emphasized that such studies are limited, lacking treatment or control groups, and no consistent evidence supports the claim.