About Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is caused by differences in the brain and may impact communication and relationships. There is no single known cause of autism. However, scientists believe genetics, as well as biological and environmental factors, are contributors.
False and misleading narratives about vaccines and acetaminophen (Tylenol) causing autism are persistent in communities. However, dozens of studies, summarized in this fact sheet by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), highlight the ongoing, rigorous review of vaccine safety and effectiveness data, which have found no association between vaccines and autism. Additionally, research such as the largest NIH-funded study on acetaminophen use during pregnancy shows no link between acetaminophen and increased risk of autism or other intellectual disabilities.
Addressing False Narratives About Vaccines
- Understanding the Narratives: The misconception that vaccines cause autism originated from a 1998 study that was later retracted. Because of this study, false narratives are ongoing and have worsened in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic. One reason some people believe vaccines cause autism is that children receive the MMR vaccine at an age when some children begin showing signs of autism, causing people to incorrectly connect the two events.
- Communicating Evidence-Based Information About Vaccines: Following the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) schedule of recommended vaccines is the most effective way to protect infants, children, and teens against 16 preventable, potentially serious diseases.
- Vaccines undergo years of careful research and testing in the U.S. before they’re available to the public. Once available, many health experts and organizations continuously monitor vaccines to ensure their ongoing safety and effectiveness.
Addressing False Narratives About Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Understanding the Narratives: Recent studies have reported associations between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and the onset of autism in children. Still, two things happening together does not mean one causes the other.
- Associations between acetaminophen and autism are based on conflicting scientific studies that often cannot separate medication use from other factors (e.g., underlying illness, genetics, or environmental factors).
- Communicating Evidence-Based Information About Acetaminophen: Healthcare providers commonly recommend acetaminophen as the safest pain reliever and fever medication to take during pregnancy. An untreated fever in pregnancy can cause significant harm to the pregnant person and the baby.
- People who are pregnant should take acetaminophen in consultation with their healthcare provider.
