Standing Against Disinformation: The Truth About Autism
In light of recent, baseless claims spreading disinformation about autism, we want to be absolutely clear about our position and direct our Homefield community to trusted, evidence-based sources.
We categorically do not accept the promotion of false or anti-science claims, and we stand in firm solidarity with the autistic community.
Our Stance: Science is Clear
We are dismayed by the recent public statements by figures like President Trump, which attempt to link autism to common medications like paracetamol (Tylenol) and childhood vaccines.
- Vaccines do NOT cause autism. Decades of extensive, large-scale studies have consistently found no credible link between vaccines (including the MMR jab) and the development of autism.
- Paracetamol (Tylenol) does NOT cause autism. The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and other global health bodies have confirmed that taking paracetamol during pregnancy remains safe. In fact, healthcare professionals recommend it as the safest choice for managing pain and fever, as untreated fever can pose risks to the unborn baby.
Autism is a complex, lifelong neurodivergence, understood to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is not caused by parenting, diet or vaccines.
The Real Impact of Misinformation
Baseless claims like these are more than just inaccurate; they are deeply harmful and irresponsible. They have a real-world, negative impact by:
- Fueling Stigma: They reinforce the outdated, prejudiced idea that autism is a problem to be “cured” or prevented, rather than an accepted difference to be supported.
- Creating Fear: They cause unnecessary anxiety for pregnant women and parents, potentially leading them to avoid necessary medical treatment.
- Distracting from support: They divert energy and attention away from the real, critical challenges faced by autistic people and their families – such as long waiting times for diagnosis, poor mental health services and difficulties with employment.
Take Action and Find Trusted Resources
We urge everyone to rely on trusted, scientific and medical authorities for information.
Sign the Open Letter
The National Autistic Society has launched a crucial campaign and open letter to fight this disinformation. We encourage you to add your name and stand up for the truth:
Sign the Open Letter: https://act.autism.org.uk/page/178427/petition/1?locale=en-GB
Trusted UK Resources
For reliable, evidence-based information, advice, and support on autism, please refer to the following organisations:
- National Autistic Society: The leading UK charity for autistic people and their families. Their website is an excellent source for advice on causes, support and services.
- Website: https://www.autism.org.uk/
- NHS: The National Health Service provides clear, medically-reviewed facts on autism and states explicitly that vaccines do not cause it.
- MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency): Confirms that paracetamol use during pregnancy is safe.
We remain committed to promoting understanding and acceptance, and we will continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of autistic people in our community.
