Statement on Autism misinformation study

AsIAm welcomes the publication of this timely study which counters the misinformation spread by the US administration connecting the taking of paracetamol during pregnancy with a person being Autistic.

Whilst the relevant healthcare statutory authorities and professional bodies in Ireland have already debunked this dangerous misconception, this rigorous study should also be widely shared to confront misinformation head on. It found taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase the likelihood of a person being Autistic or having a diagnosis of ADHD or intellectual disability. The research was published recently in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health, and led by researchers from City St George’s, University of London.

For more information:

HPRA: https://www.hpra.ie/news-events/news/article/hpra-statement-on-use-of-paracetamol-medicines-during-pregnancy

Irish Medical Organisation: https://www.imo.ie/news-media/news-press-releases/2025/irish-medical-organisatio/index.xml

Science Media Centre: https://www.sciencemediacentre.org/expert-reaction-to-review-showing-that-taking-paracetamol-during-pregnancy-does-not-increase-risk-of-autism-adhd-or-intellectual-disabilities/

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