Author: Gorini F, Muratori F, Morales MA.
Source: Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Year: 2014
Comment:
The researchers conclude, "Overall, new efforts should be performed in order to confirm the role of metals as etiological agents in autism and accelerate translation of science into prevention."
Abstract / Excerpt:
“An increasing evidence supports the role of industrial chemicals as contributors to the development of neurobehavioral disorders, including autism spectrum dis-orders, whose prevalence has progressively increased in recent years. Heavy metals, in particular, are recognized as neurodevelopmental toxins since they can be responsi-ble of fetal damages which lead to neurological defects, developmental delays, learning disabilities and behavioral abnormalities. Most of the reviewed studies reported a relationship between exposure to metals during perinatal and early childhood periods and increased risk for autism. Moreover, the effects resulting from co-exposure to multi-ple metals should not be underestimated, especially in the assessment of children who live in developing countries or near heavily contaminated sites.”
Citation:
Gorini F, Muratori F, Morales MA. The Role of Heavy Metal Pollution in Neurobehavioral Disorders: a Focus on Autism. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. 2014; 1(4): 354-372.