Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy, early childhood may heighten autism risk, study suggests

NEW DELHI: Exposure to air pollution during periods critical for brain development — latter trimester of pregnancy or early childhood — could significantly heighten autism risk, according to a study.

Researchers reviewed previously published studies and found that common air pollutants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides, can trigger complex biological processes that could affect brain development.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which a child displays repetitive behaviour and affected social skills. Early signs, such as difficulty in non-verbal communication and avoiding eye contact, can show as early as between one and two years of age.

Source: PTI News

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