Kenvue (US:KVUE) Sky Newsยท2025-09-22 19:08Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism, highlighting the lack of substantial evidence to support this claim despite rising autism rates in the US and increased paracetamol consumption [1][2][4]. Group 1: Paracetamol Usage and Autism Correlation - Americans account for over 40% of global paracetamol consumption, spending more than $4 billion annually on acetaminophen products [1]. - Autism rates in the US have increased significantly, from approximately one in 150 children in 2000 to about one in 30 today [1]. - Some studies suggest a correlation between maternal paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders, but these studies have not definitively proven causation [2][3]. Group 2: Confounding Factors - Factors such as parental genetics, maternal lifestyle, and the underlying reasons for paracetamol use (e.g., viral infections) may confound the observed correlation [3]. - A large study involving 2.5 million children in Sweden found only a marginal increase in autism risk associated with maternal paracetamol use, which disappeared when considering siblings born to the same mothers during pregnancies without paracetamol use [6][8]. Group 3: Health Recommendations - Health authorities, including those in the UK, continue to recommend paracetamol as the safest pain relief option during pregnancy, as other painkillers like ibuprofen may pose risks [9]. - Experts caution that avoiding paracetamol could lead to more significant health issues for both the mother and the developing baby [11][12]. Group 4: Societal Implications - The discussion around a potential link between paracetamol and autism may contribute to stigma against mothers of autistic children, which is a concern among researchers [14]. - The narrative surrounding this issue may serve as a distraction from other controversies, reflecting broader themes in US health policy [16][17].