WHO Rebukes Trump: No Evidence Linking Acetaminophen (Tylenol) to Autism

US President Donald Trump made a claim that Tylenol taken by pregnant women caused autism in children

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent claim that acetaminophen use during pregnancy causes autism, saying there is “no conclusive scientific evidence” to support such a link.

The rebuttal followed Trump’s September 23 White House announcement, where he told supporters that acetaminophen widely known as Tylenol or paracetamol was tied to autism.

“Autism is linked to the medication,” Trump declared, urging pregnant women to “limit their use of it or not use it at all.”

Medical experts quickly warned the comments could be dangerous, but the WHO issued the most comprehensive response, reinforcing global consensus on the condition’s causes and on the safety of vaccines.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that there is currently no conclusive scientific evidence confirming a possible link between autism and use of acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) during pregnancy,” the statement read.

The WHO noted that autism spectrum disorder affects about 62 million people worldwide, describing it as a set of neurodevelopmental conditions shaped by multiple genetic and environmental factors.

“Extensive research has been undertaken over the past decade, including large-scale studies, looking into links between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism,” it continued. “At this time, no consistent association has been established.”

The organisation also reiterated long-standing findings on vaccines.

“A robust, extensive evidence base exists showing childhood vaccines do not cause autism,” it said, dismissing early flawed studies and reaffirming that vaccines containing thiomersal or aluminium are safe.

The WHO credited the global immunisation schedule based on recommendations from its Strategic Advisory Group of Experts with saving at least 154 million lives over the past 50 years.

“As a global community, we need to do more to understand the causes of autism and how best to care for and support the needs of autistic people and their families,” the statement added. “WHO also stands with people who are living with autism and their families, a dignified community entitled to evidence-based considerations free of stigma.”

The timing of the rebuttal coincided with the UN High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and mental health in New York, where autism and neurodevelopmental disorders were on the agenda.

Trump’s remarks have reignited debate over science and public health messaging. The WHO’s firm response underscored the need for caution, accuracy, and compassion in conversations about autism’s causes.