A new study has found out that the previous apparent link between exposure to pollution in the first years of life of infants and even in pregnancy and Autism is probably true. Researchers reveal that when the child or infant has been exposed to pollutants, he might develop Autism.
The researchers were led by Dr. Evelyn Tablott, a professor of Epidemiology from the Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health found out that the exposure of children to toxic air containing high levels of chromium and styrene can eventually lead to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They presented their study in the American Association for Aerosol Research annual meeting in Orlando, Florida.
The researchers interviewed 217 families of children with ASD and families of children without ASD. They compared the data and results from 2005 to 2009. The team used the National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA) for estimation of exposure to 30 pollutants that are known to induce or case endocrine disorder or neurodevelopmental issues.
The group reported landing in a conclusion that there is indeed a link of increased levels of the two pollutants with the development of childhood autism spectrum disorder. The children exposed to the two chemicals were up to twice as much to develop autism than those who were not exposed. This is from pregnancy to two years of age.
Chromium is a chemical which is derived by many human activities. It is released to air primarily by combustion processes and metal industries. On the other hand, styrene is the product of poly styrene plastics and resins. High exposure to these chemicals can lead to many neurological deficiencies and conditions.
All the data gathered suggest that families living with children who have autism might be living in areas where the levels of these two pollutants are really high.