The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that current studies do not provide definitive evidence of a causal relationship between acetaminophen (paracetamol) use during pregnancy and autism in children, noting that research results remain conflicting.
Tarek Yasharovich, a spokesperson for the organization, stated at a press conference in Geneva that while some studies suggest a potential link, the lack of replicated results across multiple studies warrants caution in drawing conclusive interpretations.
He emphasized the need for caution when using medications during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, confirming that several studies have found no association between acetaminophen and autism.
These comments follow U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement that the Food and Drug Administration will issue a warning regarding acetaminophen use during pregnancy, citing rising autism rates in the U.S. over the past two decades.
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