New numbers from the Centers for Disease Control show autism is on the rise. Now, one in every 59 children will be diagnosed with some form of the disorder.
It's one of the fastest growing childhood disorders in the U.S. and some researchers think acetaminophen may be a contributing factor.
A new study looks at whether taking them during pregnancy can increase your child's risk of developing autism or ADHD.
The study looked at more than 130,000 moms and their children for nearly 11 years. Researchers did see an association between prolonged use of acetaminophen and the risk of autism and ADHD -- and the risk was found to be rather significant. A nearly 20 percent increased chance of getting autism and a 30 percent chance of getting ADHD.
Does this mean that pregnant women shouldn't take this type of medication? No. According to the CDC and doctors, acetaminophen is still the safest known drug to treat pain and fever while pregnant. Doctors say it's riskier to have an untreated fever than it is to take small doses of acetaminophen.
The study found that taking it eight days in a row or less showed no increase in autism or ADHD. It's when it goes beyond that when you should have a discussion with your doctor.
Here are two things to remember, the study doesn't prove that too much acetaminophen causes autism, it just proves there is a link -- and experts still don't know the cause behind them, which is why more research needs to be done to find out what prolonged exposure can do to an unborn child.
Always consult your doctor if you have any concerns about taking medications while pregnant.
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