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Autism risk higher in areas with high air pollution. Much is still unknown about how autism develops and why it strikes some children and not others. New data out this week from the Harvard School of Public Health indicates that pollution might have something to do with it. “The researchers analyzed 245 children with autism and 1,522 without. By looking at estimated pollution exposure during pregnancy, based on the mother’s home address, the scientists concluded high levels of pollution were more common in children with autism. The strongest link was with fine particulate matter – invisible specks of mineral dust, carbon and other chemicals – that enter the bloodstream and cause damage throughout the body.” While the link was significant, the researchers acknowledged the study doesn’t show causality and that there may be other factors in heavily polluted areas that also contribute. But they also point out this study is not the first to propose the danger. “If chemicals are entering the mother’s body then the fetus will have access to those too. Women should be made aware of the potential links so they don’t get excessive exposure.”
