The Trump administration and autism: a joint statement from leading UK autism charities

Joint statement from: Ambitious about Autism, Autism Alliance, Autistica and National Autistic Society.

Today, the Trump administration has issued a statement linking paracetamol use in pregnancy to autism. The evidence to suggest paracetamol use in pregnancy increases the likelihood of a baby being autistic is very weak and based on poorly conducted studies. High-quality, well-controlled studies suggest there is no link between paracetamol in pregnancy and autism. Pregnant people should continue to follow existing NHS advice.

The Trump administration has regularly referred to rising rates of autism and named various incorrect causes. The rising rates of autism that we have seen in recent years are most likely due to increased awareness and changes to diagnosis. Hundreds of studies have been carried out to look at the causes of autism, but none have found a major environmental cause.

There are no proven therapies or drugs that ‘cure’ autism. Most autistic people and families want research to focus on better understanding and support.