Autism and BPA: New Study Raises Concerns
Exposure to Common Plastic Chemical Linked to Autism in Boys
A groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications has found significant evidence linking exposure to the common plastic chemical bisphenol A (BPA) in the womb to an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in boys.
Boys at Increased Risk
The study analyzed data from over 1,000 mother-child pairs and found that boys exposed to BPA in utero had a startling 35 times higher likelihood of developing autism symptoms by age 2. Additionally, they were six times more likely to receive a verified diagnosis of ASD compared to boys with lower prenatal BPA exposure.
Higher BPA Levels in Mothers of Autistic Boys
Furthermore, the study revealed that pregnant mothers who gave birth to boys with ASD had significantly higher levels of urinary BPA in their late stages of pregnancy. This suggests that the timing of BPA exposure may play a crucial role in its impact on fetal brain development.
Alterations in Brain Structure and Function
Animal studies conducted alongside the human research shed light on the possible mechanisms underlying the association between prenatal BPA exposure and autism. Mice exposed to BPA in the womb exhibited altered structure and function in the cerebral cortex, a brain region critical for social and emotional development.
Compelling Evidence for Caution
The combined findings of this study add to the growing body of evidence suggesting that BPA exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of autism in boys. While more research is needed to fully understand the causal relationship, these results highlight the importance of reducing BPA exposure during pregnancy to protect fetal neurodevelopment.
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