Health Secretary Wes Streeting has issued a stern rebuke to former US President Donald Trump over what he termed "baseless and dangerous" claims suggesting a link between paracetamol use and autism.
Trump's Controversial Comments Spark Alarm
The political firestorm erupted after Trump suggested during a campaign appearance that paracetamol could be connected to autism spectrum disorders. The comments, made without citing scientific evidence, prompted immediate concern among medical professionals and policymakers.
Mr Streeting didn't mince words when addressing the claims, stating: "When it comes to giving health advice, people should listen to doctors and clinicians, not politicians - especially not politicians peddling dangerous misinformation."
Official NHS Guidance Remains Unchanged
The Department of Health and Social Care has moved quickly to reassure the public that official NHS guidance on paracetamol use remains unchanged. Current advice states that paracetamol is safe to use during pregnancy when taken as directed.
Key points from NHS guidance include:
- Paracetamol is the first choice of painkiller for pregnant women
- It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time
- Women should always consult their midwife or GP if uncertain about medication use
Scientific Consensus Backs Current Advice
Medical experts have rallied behind the Health Secretary's position, pointing to the substantial body of research supporting paracetamol's safety profile when used appropriately during pregnancy.
Professor Sir Chris Whitty, England's chief medical officer, emphasised that "decisions about medicine use in pregnancy should be based on robust scientific evidence, not anecdotal claims."
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for public health communication, with officials increasingly concerned about the spread of medical misinformation through social media and political channels.
Mr Streeting concluded: "My message to parents is clear: follow the expert advice from our world-class NHS, not unsubstantiated claims from across the Atlantic."
