Air Pollution and Autism?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism spectrum disorders affect a child's social, emotional, and developmental development. This is a lifelong condition that can also contribute to numerous behavioral issues. Genetics are known to play a role. However, recent studies have shown that it may be more than just genetics that contribute to the condition - it might actually also be due to air pollution.

New research from one study compares the instances of autism between children and women who lived in areas that had high levels of diesel fumes and mercury were more likely to develop autism than those who lived in areas with cleaner air. This information can now be used to take the subsequent studies to yet another level - actually testing the blood of the mother and child to check for the levels and types of toxins that can pass through the bloodstream in while a woman is pregnant. This information could lead to finding out even more information about this complex spectrum.

Although studies between the relationship of air pollution and ASD might help shed some the light on the subject, they aren't definitive. Women who live in what might be considered high risk areas aren't necessarily going to give birth to children who may have ASD or other health issues. Genetics also play a large factor. We need to keep in mind that 1 in 88 children are diagnosed with a condition from ASD. Those children are from all types of backgrounds and regions. Boys are diagnosed with the condition at a higher prevalence than girls.

Toxins in the environment lead to increased risk of developing numerous conditions. We've long since known that environmental issues affect plants and animals, we also attribute certain environmental factors to other diseases. And the more we find out, the more apparent it is that we need to do what we can to save our environment and keep it as clean as possible. After all, it directly affects more than just our way of life - it also affects our health as well as the health of our unborn children.